New guidelines released Thursday (August 14) by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology recommend that individuals with high blood pressure start treatment earlier and avoid alcohol. These guidelines mark the first update since 2017 and emphasize the importance of lifestyle changes and early intervention to reduce the risk of heart disease, kidney disease, type 2 diabetes, and dementia.
According to the guidelines, maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle is crucial. This includes following a diet low in salt, staying physically active , managing stress, and maintaining a healthy weight. If necessary, early treatment with medication is advised to lower blood pressure and prevent complications like heart attack and stroke. The guidelines also highlight the as