New Blood Pressure Guidelines Recommend an Earlier Start to Treatment and Skipping Alcohol

The American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology have released their first new blood pressure guidelines since 2017, emphasizing earlier intervention and stronger lifestyle changes. For adults with systolic readings of 130–139 mm Hg, providers are now advised to begin with lifestyle modifications and move to medication if needed within months, lowering the threshold for treatment.

The guidelines also recommend abstaining from alcohol, reflecting new evidence of its negative impact on blood pressure. With nearly half of U.S. adults affected, these changes highlight the critical role of public health communication in promoting prevention and clear health messaging. Read more from CNN here.