WHAT IT IS
The force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries, measured as two numbers (systolic over diastolic).
WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOU
The target for most adults with diabetes is below 130/80. High blood pressure combined with diabetes compounds risk to the kidneys, eyes, and heart.
WHY THIS MATTERS FOR ASIAN AMERICANS
South Asian adults are at elevated cardiovascular risk, often at lower body weights than U.S. averages. Tight blood pressure control matters more in this population.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
- Check at home weekly with a validated cuff
- Reduce salt — be mindful of soy sauce, fish sauce, pickled foods, and packaged snacks
- Stay active, sleep well, and limit alcohol
WHAT TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR
- What's my target blood pressure?
- Is my current medication still right for me?
- Should I be checking at home?