Hypertension is commonly defined as blood pressure greater than what level?

Hypertension is typically defined as having a blood pressure reading that is consistently at or above 140/90 mmHg, which is why this answer is the correct one. This threshold is used to categorize an individual as having hypertension according to guidelines set forth by organizations such as the American Heart Association.

The systolic reading (the first number) reflects the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, while the diastolic reading (the second number) measures the pressure when the heart is resting between beats. When either or both of these values exceed the specified levels, it can indicate a higher risk of cardiovascular issues, prompting the need for assessment and potential intervention.

While the other options might reflect elevated blood pressure readings, they do not meet the established threshold for defining hypertension as recognized by current clinical guidelines. For example, 120/80 mmHg is typically considered the ideal blood pressure for adults, while 130/85 mmHg might suggest elevated blood pressure—a step before hypertension. Lastly, 150/95 mmHg is classified as stage 2 hypertension, indicating a more severe condition that may require more aggressive treatment. However, the benchmark for a diagnosis of hypertension remains at 140/90 mmHg.