According to 2017 guidelines, what does a reading of 120-129 mm Hg / less than 80 mm Hg indicate?

A reading of 120-129 mm Hg systolic and less than 80 mm Hg diastolic is classified as "elevated blood pressure" according to the 2017 guidelines set by the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association. This classification is part of a strategy to identify individuals at risk for developing hypertension in the future.

Elevated blood pressure signifies that while the individual does not yet have high blood pressure (hypertension), their blood pressure is above the normal range and suggests the need for lifestyle changes to prevent worsening conditions. The guidelines categorize blood pressure readings as follows: normal (less than 120/80 mm Hg), elevated (120-129 mm Hg systolic and less than 80 mm Hg diastolic), stage 1 hypertension (130-139 mm Hg systolic or 80-89 mm Hg diastolic), and stage 2 hypertension (140 mm Hg or higher systolic or 90 mm Hg or higher diastolic).

Understanding this classification is crucial for health and wellness coaches, as it allows them to support clients in making proactive health choices and monitoring their blood pressure to mitigate risks associated with hypertension.