Silent Killer: High Blood Pressure Crisis in AANHPI Communities

High blood pressure, the #1 preventable risk factor for heart disease and stroke in the U.S., is a silent killer that disproportionately affects Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. The American Heart Association (AHA), the world’s leading nonprofit focused on cardiovascular health, is urgently sharing tips and information to help people keep their blood pressure in check through simple lifestyle changes. High blood pressure affects nearly half of all U.S. adults, yet only about one in four have it under control. In the AANHPI community, it impacts 1 in 2 men and more than 1 in 3 women, and was responsible for over 4,000 deaths in 2023 alone—equivalent to the capacity of about 10 jumbo jets.

Dr. Justin Lee, a cardiologist at Stanford University and volunteer board member of the AHA Greater Bay Area, emphasizes that managing blood pressure is intensely personal and crucial for staying present for loved ones. The AHA recommends regular blood pressure checks using a home blood pressure monitor or at a pharmacy kiosk. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80, and consistently high readings warrant a discussion with a clinician. Extremely high readings (systolic >180 or diastolic >120) with symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath require immediate emergency care. The AHA’s Life's Essential 8™—including eating smart, being active, quitting tobacco, sleeping well, managing weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar—provide a science-backed roadmap. For those needing additional help, medications are available, and the My Life Check Calculator offers personalized goals.

New research confirms that high blood pressure can damage brain blood vessels, leading to memory problems and dementia later in life. Women must manage blood pressure before, during, and after pregnancy to avoid complications and future heart risks. The AHA’s PREVENT™ risk calculator helps doctors create personalized treatment plans. The AHA also offers resources in multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Tagalog, to reach diverse communities. This comprehensive initiative aims to empower individuals to take control of their heart health and reduce the devastating impact of high blood pressure.