Strategies for Saving Lives

People who are overweight or obese, or who have diabetes, have a greater chance of developing high blood pressure. Certain other groups are especially affected by high blood pressure.

African Americans
High blood pressure is a major factor underlying African Americans' lower life expectancy. It is also the most important reason why African Americans are 4 times more likely to develop kidney failure than Caucasians. African American women are especially at risk. They are 3 times more likely to die of heart disease or stroke before age 60 than Caucasian women.

Older Americans
The likelihood of developing high blood pressure increases with age. New research shows that middle-aged and older Americans have a 90 percent chance of developing high blood pressure in their lifetimes. Treating high blood pressure in older people can reduce their odds of having a heart attack by 27 percent, a stroke by 36 percent, and heart failure by 54 percent.

Women
More women than men have died of cardiovascular diseases every year since 1984. CVD kills as many women each year as the next 16 causes of death combined, including breast cancer. Early detection and treatment of high blood pressure could prevent many of these deaths.

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