This text provides information about blood pressure, its importance, risks, diagnosis, prevention, and management of high blood pressure. Here's a summary: **What is Blood Pressure?** Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. It has two numbers: systolic (highest when the heart beats) and diastolic (lowest between beats). **How is High Blood Pressure Diagnosed?** High blood pressure usually has no symptoms, so regular checks from a healthcare provider are necessary. The provider uses a gauge, stethoscope, or electronic sensor to take two or more readings at separate appointments. **Who is at Risk for High Blood Pressure?** Anyone can develop high blood pressure, but certain factors increase the risk: * Age * Race/Ethnicity * Weight * Sex (men before age 55, women after age 55) * Lifestyle habits: + Eating too much sodium (salt) + Not enough potassium + Lack of exercise + Drinking too much alcohol + Smoking * Family history **How can I Prevent High Blood Pressure?** Prevention involves a healthy lifestyle: * Eat a healthy diet: limit sodium, increase potassium, and eat foods low in fat * Get regular exercise: moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (2.5 hours/week) or vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise (1 hour/15 minutes/week) * Maintain a healthy weight * Limit alcohol consumption * Quit smoking * Manage stress **What if I already have High Blood Pressure?** If you already have high blood pressure, it's essential to prevent it from getting worse and causing complications. You should get regular medical care and follow your prescribed treatment plan, which may include healthy lifestyle habits and medicines. Overall, the text emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to prevent high blood pressure and manage its risks.