High blood pressure, often called 'the silent killer,' is a condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high. Many people have high blood pressure without knowing it, which is why it's termed 'silent.' Government statistics show that about 29% of American adults have high blood pressure, a rise from 25% in the early 1990s. This increase is linked to rising rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Consuming too much salt also contributes to high blood pressure. High blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease, kidney failure, stroke, and other serious conditions. Both men and women are affected. High blood pressure is defined as having a systolic number above 140 and a diastolic number above 90. Normal blood pressure is a systolic number of 120 or below and a diastolic number of 80 or below. Numbers between high and normal are called 'prehypertension.' Blood pressure should be managed by a doctor. National guidelines suggest lifestyle changes to prevent and treat high blood pressure. These include reducing sodium intake, following the DASH diet, and getting regular physical activity. As we age, it's important to monitor our blood pressure and take steps to keep it in the normal range.