A driver has a blood pressure reading of 136/92 mm Hg. How is this classified?

A blood pressure reading of 136/92 mm Hg is classified as Stage 1 Hypertension. The classification system for blood pressure categorizes readings based on the values they present. According to the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the American Heart Association (AHA), blood pressure is considered:

• Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
• Elevated: Systolic 120-129 and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg
• Stage 1 Hypertension: Systolic 130-139 or diastolic 80-89 mm Hg
• Stage 2 Hypertension: Systolic 140 or higher or diastolic 90 or higher

In this case, the systolic value of 136 falls within the Stage 1 Hypertension range, while the diastolic value of 92 is classified as Stage 2. However, since the classification is primarily determined by the higher of the two blood pressure measurements when they fall into different stages, the systolic pressure is decisive here, establishing the diagnosis as Stage 1 Hypertension. This classification is significant as it indicates increased risk for cardiovascular problems and may necessitate lifestyle changes or monitoring.