What defines Stage 2 hypertension according to standard guidelines?

What defines Stage 2 hypertension according to standard guidelines?

• A. SBP 120-129 or DBP 70-79
• B. SBP 130-139 or DBP 80-89
• C. SBP >140 or DBP >90
• D. SBP <120 and DBP <80

Answer: (C)

Stage 2 hypertension is defined by higher blood pressure cutoffs, signaling a more pronounced elevation that typically requires more intensive management. Specifically, a systolic blood pressure of 140 mmHg or higher, or a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg or higher, on repeated measurements or validated readings, meets this category. This distinguishes it from elevated blood pressure (120–129 systolic with diastolic under 80) and from Stage 1 hypertension (130–139 systolic or 80–89 diastolic). A reading of 120–129 with a normal diastolic isn’t hypertension, and a reading below 120/80 is normal. The higher thresholds of Stage 2 alert clinicians to the greater cardiovascular risk and the need for more aggressive treatment, often combining lifestyle changes with medication and closer follow-up.

Stage 2 hypertension is defined by higher blood pressure cutoffs, signaling a more pronounced elevation that typically requires more intensive management. Specifically, a systolic blood pressure of 140 mmHg or higher, or a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg or higher, on repeated measurements or validated readings, meets this category. This distinguishes it from elevated blood pressure (120–129 systolic with diastolic under 80) and from Stage 1 hypertension (130–139 systolic or 80–89 diastolic). A reading of 120–129 with a normal diastolic isn’t hypertension, and a reading below 120/80 is normal. The higher thresholds of Stage 2 alert clinicians to the greater cardiovascular risk and the need for more aggressive treatment, often combining lifestyle changes with medication and closer follow-up.