Blood Pressure Targets Below 120 Could Cut Death Risk by 25 Percent
Blood pressure targets have steadily decreased over decades, sparking conspiracy theories about pharmaceutical profits. However, mounting evidence supports these changes. The landmark SPRINT trial found targeting blood pressure below 120 (versus 140) reduced death risk by 25% and cardiovascular events by 27%. A follow-up Chinese study with 11,000 participants confirmed similar benefits, including 21% lower all-cause mortality. Recent dementia research shows 14% lower cognitive decline risk with aggressive blood pressure control. This progression from 180/110 thresholds in 1948 to current recommendations reflects genuine scientific advancement, not pharmaceutical manipulation. The 2025 guidelines now recommend targeting under 130, preferably 120 or below, for those with elevated cardiovascular risk.