Nearly half of American adults are affected by hypertension, a condition that significantly increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and dementia, according to a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The report reveals that 47.7% of adults aged 18 and older experienced high blood pressure between 2020 and 2023, a figure consistent with findings from previous years.
Alarmingly, about 40% of those with hypertension are unaware of their condition, which prevents them from seeking necessary treatment. This lack of awareness contributes to the high mortality rate associated with high blood pressure, which is responsible for over 685,000 deaths annually in the United States.
The CDC’s findings indicate that the government is unlikely to meet its goal of reducing hypertension prevalence to 41% by 2030. Notably, the rate among women rose from 40% in the previous report to 45% this year. Among different age groups, 23% of individuals aged 18 to 39 have hypertension, while the rates increase to approximately 53% for those aged 40 to 59 and 72% for seniors aged 60 and older. Although there was a slight decrease in prevalence among older adults, younger populations have seen a small increase.
This rise in hypertension may contribute to an increase in strokes and heart-related events among younger individuals.
According to another CDC report, strokes among Americans under 45 have surged nearly 15% since 2011. The agency attributes this trend not only to high blood pressure but also to rising obesity rates and drug addiction.
The Cleveland Clinic identifies several risk factors for hypertension, including recreational drug use, poor diet, and lack of physical activity.
However, even healthy individuals can develop high blood pressure.
The CDC report found that while 59% of those with hypertension were aware of their condition, treatment varied significantly by age. Only 27% of young adults recognized their hypertension compared to 74% of seniors.
Treatment rates also reflect this disparity: just 14% of younger individuals were receiving treatment for hypertension compared to 69% of older adults. Despite these figures, there was no significant change in awareness or treatment rates between the surveys conducted from 2017-2021 and those from 2021-2023.
Hypertension is often termed a “silent killer” because it typically does not exhibit symptoms. However, when blood pressure reaches levels above 180/120 mmHg, individuals may experience severe symptoms such as headaches and heart palpitations. This condition is classified as a “hypertensive crisis” and necessitates immediate medical attention.
In the U.S., high blood pressure was linked to approximately 685,900 deaths in 2022 alone. Over time, untreated hypertension can weaken the heart and blood vessels, leading to cardiovascular diseases and increasing the risk of stroke and dementia.
To manage hypertension effectively, doctors recommend lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, following a balanced diet low in salt, moderating alcohol consumption, exercising regularly, and ensuring adequate potassium intake.
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