Guideline Emphasis on Earlier Treatment to Reduce Health, Dementia Risks Boosts Urgency to Keep Closer Watch on Blood Pressure
OMRON Healthcare has started a nationwide campaign encouraging people to check their blood pressure at home regularly. This initiative follows new guidelines from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, which stress the importance of early identification and handling of high blood pressure to boost heart health. These are the first updated guidelines since 2017 and they highlight the need for making blood pressure monitoring a daily routine for everyone in the U.S.
Jim Li, the executive director of global medical affairs at OMRON Healthcare, said, “Half of all U.S. adults have high blood pressure, which is the leading preventable risk factor for heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and cognitive decline. The 2025 guidelines clearly show: don’t wait for your next doctor’s visit. Checking blood pressure at home regularly is important for long-term health.” The new guidelines are based on over ten years of research, showing how early action and a healthy lifestyle can lower the chances of heart disease, kidney disease, type 2 diabetes, and dementia. Alice Koehler, Managing Director of OMRON Healthcare U.S., added, “These are the first new guidelines in eight years, and they bring major changes to how we should understand blood pressure and the need to make routine monitoring a priority as a way to get earlier treatment. The guidelines highlight the link between heart and brain health and the greater risk of dementia from uncontrolled blood pressure. It’s even more important to keep a close eye on blood pressure before, during, and after pregnancy to protect the long-term health of both mothers and babies.”
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OMRON Healthcare suggests a few main actions based on these guidelines. People should start regularly checking their blood pressure at home. For those with systolic readings between 130 and 139, medication may be suggested if lifestyle changes don’t work within three to six months. Detecting high blood pressure early through home monitoring helps both patients and doctors make better decisions. Jim Li added, “Checking blood pressure can be done once a week, once a day, or more frequently, depending on the individual. Talk to your doctor. Blood pressure is an important health indicator.” OMRON’s Platinum and EVOLV monitors are among the top recommended devices for home use.
The guidelines also underline the importance of heart health in preserving cognitive function. High blood pressure and conditions like atrial fibrillation can decrease the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the brain. Jim Li mentioned, “Regular at-home monitoring using tools like the OMRON 10 Series, which includes AI-powered AFib detection, can help find these risks earlier than ever.” Also, pregnant women or those planning to get pregnant should monitor their blood pressure regularly because of the higher health risks that pregnancy can bring. Alice Koehler urged, “Pregnancy is a crucial time for cardiovascular health. Those planning to conceive should visit validatebp.org, apply the pregnancy filter, and find the recommended monitors for home use.”
Keeping a healthy weight is also vital for controlling blood pressure. The guidelines mention GLP-1 medications as effective weight-loss tools when prescribed by a doctor. These drugs were originally made for diabetes treatment but have proven to be very effective in weight loss, which is an important part of lowering blood pressure. Combining weight management with regular home monitoring offers the best chance for success. OMRON supports this with an online library of health and lifestyle articles to help patients make lasting changes. Finally, the guidelines highlight the benefits of virtual coaching to support healthier habits. Lifestyle factors like exercise, stress management, and reducing alcohol and sodium intake remain key for blood pressure control. Jim Li said, “Digital health tools offer a way to make meaningful behavior changes. Our OMRON Connect app works as a virtual coach, giving insights on blood pressure readings along with tips to stay active, manage stress, and take medications as prescribed.” Alice Koehler concluded, “This is a call to action for early detection and proactive management of blood pressure to improve overall health. OMRON’s innovations, such as advanced blood pressure monitors and Intellisense AFib detection along with the OMRON Connect app, are accessible, affordable, and designed to help both medical professionals and patients of all ages.”
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