They call it the "silent killer" for a reason. High blood pressure often has no symptoms — you can have it for years without knowing, all while it quietly damages your heart, kidneys, brain, and blood vessels.
For Black women, this silent threat is especially dangerous. Nearly 60% of us have high blood pressure, compared to about 40% of white women. We're more likely to develop it earlier, have it be more severe, and experience worse outcomes.
THE NUMBERS
Blood Pressure Categories
|
Normal |
Below 120/80 mmHg |
|
Elevated |
120-129 / Below 80 |
|
Stage 1 |
130-139 / 80-89 |
|
Stage 2 |
140+ / 90+ |
TAKE CONTROL
What You Can Do
✓ Reduce sodium to under 2,300 mg/day (1,500 mg ideal)
✓ Eat potassium-rich foods (bananas, potatoes, spinach, beans)
✓ 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week
✓ Limit alcohol and don't smoke
✓ Take medication consistently if prescribed
The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to check it. Get measured at least once a year.
