This text provides information on blood pressure, its diagnosis, risk factors, prevention strategies, and management of high blood pressure. Here's a summary of the main points: **What is Blood Pressure?** * The force of blood pushing against artery walls * Highest when heart beats, pumping blood (systolic pressure) * Lowest between beats, when heart rests (diastolic pressure) **Diagnosis** * No symptoms, only through regular blood pressure checks by a healthcare provider * Uses a gauge, stethoscope, or electronic sensor to take readings * Compares readings to normal values for age, height, and gender **Risk Factors** * Age (blood pressure rises with age) * Race/Ethnicity (African American adults more likely to develop high blood pressure) * Weight (overweight/obese individuals at higher risk) * Sex (men <55, women >55 more likely to develop high blood pressure) * Lifestyle habits (high sodium intake, lack of exercise, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking) **Prevention** * Healthy diet: limit sodium, increase potassium, eat foods lower in fat * Regular exercise: moderate-intensity aerobic exercise 2.5 hours/week or vigorous-intensity 1 hour 15 minutes/week * Maintain a healthy weight * Limit alcohol * Quit smoking * Manage stress through relaxation techniques **Management** * If already diagnosed with high blood pressure, continue regular medical care and follow treatment plan * Healthy lifestyle habits and possibly medication to prevent complications