I completely agree with these new stricter guidelines, since they are backed by thorough research and statistics.

Keep reading.

The new criteria for Hypertension (High Blood Pressure-High BP)

Blood pressure is usually measured in mm Hg (millimeters of mercury). Before November 6, 2017, normal blood pressure was defined as a blood pressure under 140/90 mmHg, now the definition has been modified to under 120/80mmHg.
A recent research has pegged high blood pressure, not necessarily hypertension, between 120 and 129 systolic blood pressure (SBP). The systolic blood pressure is the number at the top of the reading given by your Blood Pressure meter. In a blood pressure reading of 120/80mmHg, 120 refers to systolic blood pressure while 80 refers to diastolic blood pressure, which is the number at the bottom of the measurement. The systolic blood pressure (the reading at the top) is more important in diagnosing High blood pressure than the diastolic blood pressure (DBP).

The readings

High Blood Pressure (Without Hypertension) is now Systolic blood pressure between 120 and 129mmHg. This was previously regarded as a normal blood pressure.

High blood pressure (With Hypertension) [Stage 1 Hypertension] is now Systolic blood pressure between 130 and 139mmHg or Diastolic blood pressure between 80 and 89mmHg.

Stage 2 Hypertension is now over SBP of 140mmHg systolic or DBP of 90mmHg.

Note: For a blood pressure reading to be regarded as valid, it must be obtained from at least two different readings from different occasions. The readings must be carefully obtained and other factors that could influence the readings must be taken note of. Factors such as exercise, foods/beverages such as caffeine, smoking and drugs that can cause elevated blood pressure must be taken into consideration.  

What is the treatment for the new high blood pressure?
A change in diet can reduce SBP by about 10 points, other additional habits can further reduce it in about 4 points. Dieting is the most significant intervention for High blood pressure without hypertension.

The recommended treatment for High blood pressure without hypertension and stage 1 hypertension (For those without cardiovascular disease and are low risk for developing it) is made up of a list of diet intervention and exercises. Increase in diet made up of fruits and vegetables that are rich in potassium, decreased intake of salt and bad cholesterol, Increased activity and exercise (No prolonged bed rest or sitting), weight loss for the overweight and decreased or complete abstinence from alcohol.

The risk for developing cardiovascular disease is based on some criteria that was determined through research and statistics. These factors mostly include older age, race, cholesterol levels, history of smoking, sedentary lifestyle and history of diabetes.

For Patients with Stage 2 hypertension or Stage 1 hypertension with cardiovascular disease (or a significant risk of developing cardiovascular disease), lifestyle changes and medication are recommended treatments.

Why is this review really significant and important?

Over the years, research and statistic has shown that most people with history of high blood pressure eventually develop cardiovascular disease. A SBP of 140 or a DBP of 90 doubles your risk of death from a cardiovascular complication and when you escape death, you may have to thrive on terrible medications and medical procedures. I mean most people who survive cardiovascular complications leave their hearts paralyzed afterwards. With good diet and lifestyle people go years healthy