According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 4 deaths in the United States is caused by heart disease. However, heart risks can be prevented and managed with lifestyle strategies and treatments.

A significant risk is hypertension (high blood pressure), which means the pressure that arteries pump blood from the heart to the rest of the body is too great. Untreated or unmanaged hypertension can negatively affect your health.

Know your blood pressure numbers.
Under new rules, the threshold for high blood pressure is 130/80 mmHG (formerly 140/90 mmHg). You can find out if your blood pressure is healthy through an automated blood pressure machine at most pharmacies or at a routine checkup with your nurse or doctor.

To prevent or manage hypertension, schedule an appointment with your primary care clinic. There are also programs available through SEGIP, such as State of Wellbeing, Virgin Pulse, Omada, and LifeMatters (EAP).

For more information about hypertension, please also visit the Minnesota Department of Health website.