Health Briefs

Federal health officials say that more people will be diagnosed with high blood pressure because the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology lowered the definition by 10 points — from 140/90 mmHg to 130/80 mmHg — to allow for earlier intervention. High blood pressure can lead to heart disease and stroke, so it’s important that you check your blood pressure regularly and take five steps to improve your health: • Quit smoking • Lose weight if needed • Eat more fruits and vegetables and less salt • Get aerobic exercise for at least 30 minutes three times a week • Limit daily alcohol to two drinks for men and one drink for women

Dr. John Beeson, regional chief medical officer for CHRISTUS St. Vincent Regional Medical Center, recommends getting your blood pressure checked annually — or every six months if it’s on the cusp of being high. Your doctor’s office can check your blood pressure or you can do it yourself at CVS, Walmart and similar stores.

Even though more people will be diagnosed with high blood pressure due to the new guidelines, health officials expect to see only a small increase in adults who need antihypertensive medication. “Lifestyle changes can help most people, but some will require medication and monitoring by their health care provider,” Beeson said.