AHA High Blood Pressure Toolkit

2 Hypertension Guideline Toolkit for Healthcare Providers HIGHLIGHTS 1 Blood pressure classifications have changed. The guideline establishes a new evidence-based classifica- tion of BP in adults, with hypertension defined by systolic and diastolic BPs that are lower than the previous thresholds. 2 The prevalence of hypertension in America is higher. Nearly half of all adults in the United States will have high BP under the updated classifications. 3 Treating high blood pressure begins with accurate measurements. Accurate measurement of BP is essential for categorizing BP, determining the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and managing high BP. Diagnosis and management of hypertension should be based on accurate measurements not only in the office but also through self-monitoring. 4 Lifestyle changes are a first line of treatment for many patients. Nonpharmacologic interventions aimed at addressing poor dietary habits, physical inactivity, and/or excessive consumption of alcohol are fundamentally important in managing the underlying causes of high BP in most adults. Healthcare providers should also discuss the importance of medication management and discuss all prescription and over- the-counter medications with patients. 5 Team-based approach to improving treatment and control in adults with high blood pressure. Most adults receiving antihypertensive drug therapy have an average systolic BP and/or diastolic BP above the target level recommended in this guideline. Recommendations to improve treatment and control are provided, including a team-based approach to management. From the 2017 Hypertension Guideline that Will Impact Your Clinical Practice From the 2017 Hypertension Clinical Practice Guideline In Practice Top 10 Things to Know 5 Things to Know CONTENTS This toolkit offers you a variety of essential guideline-related resources: 3 HBP is associated with these life- threatening diseases 4 CVD risk factors tied to hypertension 5 Definitions of normal and elevated BP and hypertension 7 Diagnosing BP 9 Meds that can contribute to high blood pressure PLUS • Summaries of evidence-based recommendations • Links to treatment algorithms • Printable resources to help your patients