The American Heart Association (AHA) is sounding the alarm on high blood pressure, a condition disproportionately affecting Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States. According to the AHA, more than half of Hispanic men (51.5%) and over a third of Hispanic women (37.3%) aged 20 and older have hypertension, yet only about 1 in 4 adults have it under control. This silent killer claimed over 66,000 Hispanic and Latino lives in 2023 alone, nearly enough to fill a major professional soccer stadium.
Dr. Eduardo Sanchez, the AHA's chief medical officer for prevention, emphasizes that managing blood pressure is an act of love for family. “In our community, family is everything, and taking care of your heart is an act of love for those around you,” he said. “Managing blood pressure is a powerful, protective step you can take for your family’s future, and it starts with knowing your numbers today.”
Currently, approximately 125.9 million (47.3%) of all U.S. adults are living with high blood pressure, an increase from previous years. The AHA recommends regular blood pressure checks, whether at a doctor's office, with a home blood pressure monitor, or at a pharmacy kiosk. Normal blood pressure is defined as systolic less than 120 and diastolic less than 80. A reading of 180/120 or higher, especially with symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or difficulty speaking, requires immediate emergency care by calling 911.
The AHA promotes its Life's Essential 8™ as a framework for heart health: eat smart, be active, quit tobacco, sleep well, manage weight, control blood pressure, manage cholesterol, and manage blood sugar. For those who still cannot control their blood pressure through lifestyle changes, safe and effective medications are available. The My Life Check Calculator offers personalized tips to set health goals.
New research indicates that high blood pressure can damage brain blood vessels, potentially leading to memory problems and dementia. Women face additional risks, as high blood pressure during pregnancy can lead to serious complications and increase future heart problems. The AHA's PREVENT™ risk calculator helps doctors estimate a patient's 10- to 30-year risk of heart attack or stroke, enabling personalized treatment plans.
The AHA urges the Hispanic community to take small steps—whether dancing at family gatherings, cooking traditional meals with a healthy twist, or walking with children—to protect their hearts and loved ones. For more information, visit heart.org.
