We often think of high blood pressure, or hypertension, as an issue that affects older adults, but it’s increasingly becoming a concern for younger people, too. Two recent studies shared by the American Heart Association show that high blood pressure is a significant issue among adolescents and young adults in the U.S.
Key Findings from the Studies:
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High Blood Pressure in Young Adults (Ages 18-39)
Nearly 23% of young adults in the study were found to have high blood pressure. This group also had higher rates of issues like not having health insurance, food insecurity, and low income. These factors, called social determinants of health, make it harder for young adults to get the healthcare they need, which increases their risk of untreated high blood pressure. -
High Blood Pressure in Youth (Ages 8-19)
Among nearly 2,600 kids and teens, 8.7% had elevated blood pressure, and 5.4% had high blood pressure. High blood pressure in childhood often leads to high blood pressure in adulthood, raising the risk for heart disease and stroke later in life. -
Impact of Social Needs on Health
Young adults facing challenges like food insecurity and low income were about 80% more likely to have untreated high blood pressure compared to those without these issues. Without proper care, their blood pressure remains high, putting them at greater risk for serious health problems.
Why This Matters
High blood pressure is often called the "silent killer" because it usually doesn’t show symptoms until it causes serious health problems. Starting life with high blood pressure can lead to long-term health issues like heart disease and stroke. Taking steps to prevent and manage high blood pressure early on is crucial.
How to Lower Blood Pressure
While some risk factors are out of our control, here are some ways to help manage or prevent high blood pressure:
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Foods rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains support heart health.
- Stay Active: Regular physical activity, like walking or biking, can help lower blood pressure.
- Manage Stress: Practices like deep breathing or meditation can help keep blood pressure in check.
- Get Regular Screenings: Even if you feel healthy, it’s essential to have your blood pressure checked regularly, especially if high blood pressure runs in your family.
What This Means for the Future
These studies highlight the importance of public health efforts to make healthcare more accessible and affordable, especially for young people. Addressing social needs like food security and income stability can also help reduce high blood pressure rates.
At Cross County Cardiology, we’re committed to educating our community on the importance of heart health at every age. By raising awareness and supporting prevention efforts, we can help young people lead healthier lives.
For more information, check out the full study here.
