Which statement defines Stage 2 hypertension according to ACC/AHA guidelines?

Which statement defines Stage 2 hypertension according to ACC/AHA guidelines?

• A. Stage 2
• B. Normal
• C. Elevated
• D. Stage 1

Answer: (A)

Stage 2 hypertension is defined by ACC/AHA as a systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher or a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher, confirmed by averaging two readings on two or more occasions. This threshold places blood pressure in the higher-risk category, signaling the need for more aggressive management, often including medication alongside lifestyle changes. For context, normal is below 120/80, elevated is 120-129 systolic with diastolic under 80, and Stage 1 is 130-139 or 80-89. These progressively higher ranges help clinicians tailor treatment intensity to the level of cardiovascular risk.

Stage 2 hypertension is defined by ACC/AHA as a systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher or a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher, confirmed by averaging two readings on two or more occasions. This threshold places blood pressure in the higher-risk category, signaling the need for more aggressive management, often including medication alongside lifestyle changes.

For context, normal is below 120/80, elevated is 120-129 systolic with diastolic under 80, and Stage 1 is 130-139 or 80-89. These progressively higher ranges help clinicians tailor treatment intensity to the level of cardiovascular risk.