Hypertension or high blood pressure, is a common disorder affecting about 70 million Americans according to the CDC. As described in the Background and Significance, it disproportionately affects African Americans, and it increases risks for a host of health outcomes including stroke, heart attack, kidney failure requiring dialysis, vascular disease, and heart failure, among others.

2017 High Blood Pressure Guidelines

  • Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg;
  • Elevated: Systolic between 120-129 and diastolic less than 80;
  • Stage 1: Systolic between 130-139 or diastolic between 80-89;
  • Stage 2: Systolic at least 140 or diastolic at least 90 mm Hg;
  • Hypertensive crisis: Systolic over 180 and/or diastolic over 120, with patients needing prompt changes in medication if there are no other indications of problems, or immediate hospitalization if there are signs of organ damage.

The Risk Estimator is intended for use in patients at risk for atherosclerotic coronary artery disease (ASCVD) and ASCVD-related events, especially due to dyslipidemia and hypertension.

This algorithm can be used in any patient population but was especially designed for use in African Americans with chronic uncontrolled hypertension. All patients in this study should be evaluated for a 10-year CVD risk.

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