08/28/2026
Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure, which increases the risk of serious health conditions such as stroke and heart disease.
Here's what you need to know about blood pressure, how to lower your risk of high blood pressure and ways to manage it.
Image descriptions:
1: A healthcare professional is taking a person's blood pressure in a clinical setting. Text reads: High blood pressure is called the silent killer. Here's what a UC Davis Health doctor wants you to know.
2: A blood pressure monitor is being used. Text reads: What do the blood pressure numbers mean? The top number measures pressure when your heart beats, and the bottom number measures pressure between beats.
3: A healthcare professional wraps a blood pressure cuff around a patient's arm. Text reads: What can cause high blood pressure? Smoking, being overweight, salty foods, certain medications, stress, inactivity, alcohol, age, genetics.
4: Chef Jett is preparing food. Text reads: How to lower blood pressure: By eating a healthy, low-sodium diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, quitting to***co and managing stress.
5: A close-up of someone holding a small dish of fresh prepared veggies. Text reads: By eating a healthy, low-sodium diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, quitting to***co and managing stress. Load up on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, and lean proteins like fish and poultry. Small food swaps can make a big difference.
6: A patient gets their blood pressure read. Text reads: See a doctor if your blood pressure stays high. Get immediate care for chest pain, trouble breathing, severe headache, dizziness or an irregular heartbeat.
