Blood Pressure Archive

To protect against heart attack, stroke, and cognitive decline, people should aim for a blood pressure reading below 130/80, according to the current blood pressure guidelines.

In three long-term studies, children of centenarians had lower rates of high blood pressure when compared with others whose parents had shorter life spans. They also tended to have less heart disease, develop health problems later, and live about three years longer.

Sleeping in a dark room may do more than improve sleep; it may also benefit heart health. A 2026 study linked nighttime light exposure with harmful changes in heart structure and higher risks of heart failure, atrial fibrillation, heart attack, stroke, and death from heart disease.

Your doctor may ask you to track your blood pressure at home to help decide if you need to start taking medication or to track your response to treatment. Here's how to get accurate readings.

Periodontal disease, the leading cause of adult tooth loss, may increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and dementia.

A 2026 study found that taking more daily steps (even at a slow pace) or walking faster (even without adding steps) was associated with a lower chance of dying early.

Drinking up to five cups of coffee per day is safe for most people and may lower the risk of heart disease and stroke, according to a 2026 statement from the American Heart Association.

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy is a common condition that causes amyloid to build up in tiny blood vessels on the brain’s surface. It can lead to gradual cognitive decline, brain bleeds, and hemorrhagic strokes.

Low-carb diets can have varied effects on LDL cholesterol levels based on a person’s body mass index. In lean people, LDL cholesterol values can rise dramatically, while levels may decline in people with obesity.

People with cardiovascular disease often take five or more medications, some of which may be unnecessary, inappropriate, or even harmful. For some people, stopping or lowering the dose of certain medications under a doctor’s guidance (deprescribing) may be a good strategy.