Normal blood pressure for adults is:
< 120 / < 80 mmHg
This value is recommended as the ideal by both the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Heart Association (AHA).
Blood Pressure Categories (AHA/WHO)
CATEGORY SYSTOLIC (MMHG) DIASTOLIC (MMHG) MEANING
Normal < 120 < 80 Ideal and healthy
Elevated 120–129 < 80 Early warning — lifestyle changes recommended High BP (Stage 1) 130–139 80–89 Mild hypertension High BP (Stage 2) ≥ 140 ≥ 90 Requires medical management Hypertensive Crisis > 180 > 120 Emergency — seek immediate care
Does Normal Blood Pressure Change With Age?
Discover more
Health
The healthy target remains the same at any age (below 130/80 mmHg), but average values tend to increase naturally:
AGE AVG SYSTOLIC AVG DIASTOLIC
20–30 ~115 ~70
40–50 ~125 ~80
60+ ~135 ~85
Discover more
Health
Important: “Average” does not mean “healthy.”
Older adults still benefit from keeping BP below 130/80, unless a doctor advises otherwise.
What WHO Emphasizes
What WHO Emphasizes
120/80 mmHg = ideal for adults
Even slightly elevated BP increases the risk of:
Heart attack
Stroke
Kidney disease
Vision loss
How to Measure Blood Pressure Correctly
Sit quietly for 5 minutes
Feet flat, back supported
Arm at heart level
No talking during measurement
Avoid caffeine, smoking, or exercise for 30 minutes
Use a validated upper-arm monitor
Take multiple readings at different times
Common Causes of High Blood Pressure
Continued on next page:
