Let’s change this statistic together. Whether or not you’re an EmblemHealth member, high blood pressure (also known as hypertension) detection and management begins the same way — with a health plan and a blood pressure test.
Heart Health
Resources
Nearly 1 in 2 adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure.
Common Questions About Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is measured as two numbers:
Systolic blood pressure (the first number) measures the pressure inside the arteries when your heart beats.
Diastolic blood pressure (the second number) measures the pressure inside the arteries when your heart rests between beats.
| Blood Pressure Category | Systolic Blood Pressure | Diastolic Blood Pressure |
| Normal | <120 mmHg | <80 mmHG |
| Elevated | 120-129 mmHg | <80 mmHG |
High blood pressure affects tens of millions of adults in the U.S. High blood pressure increases the risk for heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
Blood pressure is the pressure of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that carry blood from your heart to other parts of your body.
If your blood pressure stays high for a long period of time, it can damage your heart and cause other health problems.
A blood pressure test measures the pressure in your arteries as your heart pumps. A blood pressure cuff is wrapped around your arm and inflated to measure your blood pressure. The test is painless and just takes a few minutes. Diagnosis and treatment of high blood pressure begins with a visit to your doctor—also known as your primary care provider (PCP).
High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer.” Most people show no signs or symptoms of hypertension, even when blood pressure is dangerously high. And many people may have high blood pressure for years without even knowing it.
Fortunately, it’s easy to protect yourself with a simple test and regular blood pressure screenings. Talk to your doctor about how often you should be screened for high blood pressure, based on your age and risk factors.
Sources: American Heart Association, 2023; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023.
High blood pressure contributes to 1,000 deaths a day, and heart disease is still the #1 killer in the United States. Fortunately, death rates have decreased significantly in recent decades. Early detection and better treatment of high blood pressure have played an important role in this achievement.
However, uncontrolled blood pressure elevates the risk for many serious health conditions, including:
- Heart attack.
- Stroke.
- Heart failure.
- Vision loss.
- Kidney disease.
In addition to getting regular blood pressure screenings, talk to your doctor about some simple steps you can take to manage your blood pressure and improve your heart health.
Sources: National Health Service (NHS), 2023; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023.
Your primary care provider (PCP) may suggest several options to help lower your blood pressure. Some may be simple lifestyle changes, while others may involve medicine. Lifestyle changes may include:
- Lowering your daily salt intake to less than 6 grams. (That is about 0.2 ounces or a teaspoon.)
- Switching to a balanced, low-fat diet that includes fresh fruit and vegetables.
- Incorporating (or increasing) exercise into your routine. It’s recommended that adults get about 30 minutes of moderately intense exercise each day. (For children, the recommendation is one hour per day.)
- Reducing or stopping alcohol consumption.
- Maintaining a healthy weight (as determined by your PCP).
- Quitting tobacco use. If you don’t smoke, vape, or use other tobacco products, don’t start. If you do smoke, ask your PCP for help to quit. You can also call the number on your member ID card and ask about smoking cessation programs available to plan members.
For some, these lifestyle changes may be able to help lower blood pressure within a few weeks. However, results may vary based on the individual. Always talk to your PCP before making any changes to your diet or exercise plans.
Sources: National Health Service (NHS), 2022; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020.
A healthy diet can often help lower both cholesterol and blood sugar. For example, eating foods that are high in fiber and full of nutrients – like vegetables and beans – may help reduce both blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Talk to your doctor for suggestions to help you manage any current health conditions (and hopefully prevent others in the future).
Sources: Healthline, 2020; Mayo Clinic, 2018.
One of the best ways to help improve cholesterol is with exercise. Moderate physical activity can help raise the "good" cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein, or HDL). As with any physical activity, talk to your doctor before adding to or changing your exercise routine. One recommendation is to gradually work up to at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise five times a week or 20 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity three times a week.
Another great way to help your cholesterol is through your diet. Soluble fiber — found in foods such as kidney beans, brussels sprouts, apples, and pears — can help reduce the absorption of cholesterol into your bloodstream. Five to 10 grams or more of soluble fiber a day decreases your LDL cholesterol. Again, talk to your doctor before making any changes to your diet.
Source: Mayo Clinic, 2022.
Blood Pressure Resources
Caring for Our Communities
AdvantageCare Physicians (ACPNY)
- One of the largest primary and specialty care medical practices located throughout all five New York boroughs.
- Providers, nurses, medical assistants, and support staff who have strong ties to the communities we serve.
- ACPNY doctors and providers participate in all EmblemHealth plans. ACPNY is part of the EmblemHealth family of companies.
Neighborhood Care
- Locations throughout New York City, making it simpler and more convenient for you to get the care you need.
- Free health and wellness classes for members and non-members alike.
- Help finding local doctors, in-person and virtual customer support, and connect to community resources.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022, 2023
NY State Department of Health, 2021