High blood pressure is a major contributor to stroke and dementia, with many unaware of their condition.
- High blood pressure is a leading cause of stroke and dementia.
- Globally, 1.28 billion adults have hypertension, with 46% unaware.
- New American Heart Association guidelines emphasize lifestyle changes for prevention and management.
- Lifestyle changes include diet, exercise, weight management, and stress reduction.
JACKSON, Miss., Sept. 8, 2025 — High blood pressure, a silent killer, is a primary driver of stroke and dementia, conditions that impact millions globally.
What is high blood pressure and why is it called a silent killer?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a widespread condition, affecting about 1.28 billion adults worldwide between the ages of 30 and 79. Alarmingly, nearly half of these individuals are unaware they have it. The danger lies in its lack of noticeable symptoms, leading it to be dubbed a “silent killer.” Regular monitoring is the only way to detect it, and without intervention, it can lead to severe health consequences, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
Globally, stroke claims over 7 million lives annually. In 2021, dementia affected 57 million people, with an additional 10 million new cases emerging each year. The grim reality is that surviving these events doesn’t guarantee a return to normal life, as both conditions can drastically reduce a person’s quality of life due to various impairments.
But here’s the good news: many of these risks are preventable. The key lies in understanding and controlling that silent killer.
New Guidelines for Blood Pressure Management
Recognizing the widespread impact of hypertension, the American Heart Association (AHA) has released updated guidelines. These recommendations prioritize prevention and early treatment to curb the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). In the U.S., almost half of all adults grapple with high blood pressure, defined as 130/80 mm Hg or higher. This makes it the leading preventable risk factor for heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney disease, cognitive decline, and dementia.
The AHA’s updated approach centers on proactive lifestyle changes. These include adopting a heart-healthy diet, reducing sodium intake, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress. For individuals who don’t achieve target blood pressure through lifestyle alone, timely medication is also recommended.
Daniel W. Jones, M.D., FAHA, chair of the guideline writing committee, emphasized the importance of awareness. “It is important for people to be aware of the recommended blood pressure goals and understand how healthy lifestyle behaviors and appropriate medication use can help them achieve and maintain optimal blood pressure,” he stated. “Prevention, early detection and management of high blood pressure are critical to long-term heart and brain health, which means longer, healthier lives.”
How to Prevent and Control Hypertension
The AHA’s new guidelines offer practical strategies to prevent and significantly lower high blood pressure.
- Limit sodium intake: Aim for less than 2,300 mg per day, with an ideal goal of 1,500 mg.
- Moderate alcohol consumption: If you drink, limit to two drinks per day for men and one for women.
- Manage stress: Employ techniques like meditation, breathing exercises, or yoga.
- Achieve a healthy weight: Aim for at least a 5% body weight reduction if overweight or obese.
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Follow the DASH eating plan, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and low-fat dairy, while including lean meats, fish, and healthy oils.
- Increase physical activity: Strive for 75-150 minutes of exercise weekly, combining aerobic and resistance training.
- Monitor regularly: Home blood pressure monitoring and routine doctor check-ups are essential.
Key Takeaway: Consistent lifestyle modifications and regular monitoring are vital for controlling high blood pressure and reducing the risk of stroke and dementia.
