🌍 What the World Health Organization (WHO) Says
The WHO recognizes 120/80 mmHg as the ideal blood pressure for adults.
When blood pressure rises above this level:
The risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and vision loss increases
Even mildly elevated readings over time can damage blood vessels
“Maintaining healthy blood pressure is key to preventing cardiovascular disease—the world’s leading cause of death.”
— World Health Organization
This becomes especially important after age 45, when arteries naturally stiffen and lifestyle factors can further raise blood pressure.
📊 Does Normal Blood Pressure Change With Age?
While 120/80 mmHg remains the ideal target at any age, average blood pressure tends to rise gradually over time due to natural changes in the cardiovascular system.
| Age Group | Average Systolic | Average Diastolic |
|---|---|---|
| 20–30 years | ~115 mmHg | ~70 mmHg |
| 40–50 years | ~125 mmHg | ~80 mmHg |
| 60+ years | ~135 mmHg | ~85 mmHg |
⚠️ Important: Average does not mean healthy.
Older adults should still aim for below 130/80 mmHg, unless their doctor advises otherwise. Recent studies show that maintaining tighter blood pressure control can significantly reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack.
