Important Revisions to Hypertension Definition in China

On November 13, 2022, the National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, along with the Chinese Medical Doctor Association and other academic institutions, jointly unveiled the "Clinical Practice Guidelines for Hypertension in China" (hereafter referred to as the new "Guidelines"). One significant update from the new "Guidelines" is the suggestion to lower the definition threshold for Chinese adults with hypertension from the previous 140/90mmHg to 130/80mmHg. Experts predict that, based on the new diagnostic criteria, the count of hypertensive patients in China will rise from 245 million to nearly 500 million, with around one-third of the Chinese population falling into the hypertensive category.

The adjustment to the high blood pressure threshold is not aimed at increasing the patient count, but rather at issuing more scientifically informed early warnings. This strategic move aims to proactively shift the defensive line against cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, thereby achieving earlier control over rising blood pressure among young and middle-aged individuals. Research indicates that elevated blood pressure constitutes a significant risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular mortality. Lowering blood pressure to below 130/80mmHg can substantially enhance cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health. International studies have even demonstrated that reducing blood pressure to this level can mitigate the risks of stroke, heart attack, and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular death. Furthermore, this adjustment is poised to prompt revisions to international hypertension diagnostic standards.

This pivotal update in hypertension management aligns with a global movement towards more proactive health strategies, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and prevention.