Only 1 in 4 Americans with high blood pressure have it under control¹

It’s not surprising when you realize that high blood pressure often doesn’t feel any different from normal. It’s sometimes called a silent killer, because the pressure the heart uses to pump blood around the body can rise slowly. Over time, the changes are hard to notice. That’s why having your blood pressure checked regularly and knowing your numbers is important.

Numbers tell the story

A blood pressure measurement shows the force of blood moving through your blood vessels when your heart beats (systolic pressure - the top number) and when your heart is at rest (diastolic pressure - the bottom number). There are clear ranges for healthy, normal blood pressure to help lower your risk.

Blood Pressure Category	Systolic mmHg  (top number)	and/or	Diastolic mmHg  (bottom number)
Normal	Less than 120	and	Less than 80
Elevated	120 to 129	and	Less than 80
High (Stage 1)	130 to 139	or	80 to 89
High (Stage 2)	140 or higher	or	90 or higher
High (Stage 3)	Higher than 180	and/or	Higher than 120

High blood pressure can increase your risk of other health problems, including:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Memory and thinking problems
• Vision problems
• Kidney disease
• Sexual health problems

 

How to keep blood pressure under control

• Quit smoking
• Reduce alcohol
• Eat a balanced diet, limiting salt
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Minimize and manage stress
• Take medications as prescribed
• Check in with your doctor regularly for blood pressure reviews

These healthy habits have benefits beyond your blood pressure. The little things you do each day to look after your health and wellbeing can also help you sleep well, stay energized, and support your immunity and memory. Plus, looking after your blood pressure now can help minimize your risk of costly unexpected hospitalizations and treatments for uncontrolled high blood pressure.

Ready to take action?

Members have access to a range of resources to help you monitor high blood pressure and stay on top of your heart health.

Join the Hypertension Management Program and receive a blood pressure monitor with no out-of-pocket cost.*

Sign up now

Set up your Daily Habits with a high blood pressure goal and BCBS FEP Blue Standard® and FEP Basic® plan members get $40 for completing this goal.*

Set your goal

If you have been diagnosed with hypertension, take the Blue Health Assessment and indicate your diagnosis to get an action plan and risk report.

Start your assessment

*You must be the contract holder or spouse, 18 years or older to receive this benefit.

1. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hypertension. Available at:  https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/hypertension.htm (accessed March 2026).