

The study, led by epidemiologist Norrina Allen, points out the significance of maintaining cardiovascular health at a young age. “We need to be aware that what happens when we’re young adults is going to have an impact,” Allen told NPR.


Interestingly, one-third of American adults have high blood pressure, but doctors don’t really worry or attempt to control it until middle age. Allen believes that though medication isn’t necessary at such a young age, it’s important to point out how these young people can improve their lifestyles and cardiovascular health.


Indeed, healthy young people are not often prone to worry about blood pressure — it’s something they’ve probably seen their grandparents do every once in a while. But moving on to college at age 18 is often a major lifestyle change that can have an effect on eating, sleeping, and exercise habits. Keeping an eye on small signs like blood pressure can have a major impact later on down the road.

Many things can help lower blood pressure, such as eating a balanced and healthy diet, as well as losing weight if the person is obese. Lowering sodium intake can also make a difference, as well as regular physical activity and decreased alcohol consumption.