Home › Biomarker
BiomarkerBlood pressure
Also: hypertension
Last scientific update: jun 2026
Blood pressure is the force of blood against your artery walls. Chronically high blood pressure gradually damages the heart, vessels, kidneys and brain.
Blood pressure at a glance
ImportanceBiggest modifiable risk factorStrong
Lowering helpsYes, reduces riskStrong
MeasureAt home, several times
AimUsually below 130/80
Blood pressure is one of the biggest modifiable risk factors, and lowering it demonstrably reduces your risk.
33 studies5 answersupdated jun 2026
Evidence per claim
Lowering blood pressure demonstrably reduces risk
View evidence →Your blood pressure says a lot about long-term health
View evidence →Weight loss noticeably improves blood pressure
View evidence →Garlic helps slightly, not a replacement for treatment
View evidence →Practical use
For whom
Everyone from middle age; measure at home if you are at risk.
Not for whom
A single high reading is not a diagnosis; measure repeatedly and calmly.
Usual dose
Less salt, weight loss, exercise and moderate alcohol; medication where needed.
Key caveats
A resting home measurement is more reliable than a one-off reading at the doctor.
What we know, and don't
Known
Lowering demonstrably reduces risk
Lifestyle plus medication works
Home measuring gives a better picture
Not yet
The ideal target per person
The best measuring schedule
How much each lifestyle part contributes
Common misconceptions
"You can feel it when your blood pressure is high."
False. Usually you notice nothing; that is why it is called the silent killer.Strong evidence
"Measuring once is enough."
False. Blood pressure fluctuates; several readings say more.Moderate evidence
How Blood pressure connects
Effects
Conditions
Related