Cardiologists Urge People Over 50 to Address Borderline High Blood Pressure

Early intervention can help prevent long-term heart damage, experts say.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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As people turn 50, their risk for heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes increases significantly. Cardiologists emphasize the importance of monitoring blood pressure and addressing borderline high blood pressure through lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and stress management. Catching and treating this early stage of high blood pressure can help prevent more serious cardiovascular issues down the road.

Why it matters

Borderline high blood pressure is a precursor to full-blown hypertension and can lead to long-term heart damage if left unchecked. By taking proactive steps to manage borderline high blood pressure through diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes, people over 50 can significantly reduce their risk of developing more serious cardiovascular problems.

The details

Borderline high blood pressure is defined as a systolic (top number) reading of 120-129 mm Hg and a diastolic (bottom number) reading of less than 80 mm Hg. Cardiologists say this early stage of elevated blood pressure provides a window of opportunity to intervene before the condition progresses to full hypertension (130/80 mm Hg or higher). Recommended lifestyle changes include following the DASH diet, getting regular exercise, managing stress, and prioritizing quality sleep. Some people with borderline high blood pressure may also need medication, depending on their overall cardiovascular disease risk.

  • After turning 50, the risk for heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes increases significantly.

The players

Dr. Maria Delgado-Lelievre

A cardiologist and the founding director of the Comprehensive Hypertension Center in Miami, Florida.

Dr. Nieca Goldberg

A cardiologist.

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What they’re saying

“That early stage matters. It gives us a window of opportunity to improve regulation before long-term damage occurs.”

— Dr. Maria Delgado-Lelievre, Cardiologist (parade.com)

“With regular participation in lifestyle changes, you can see improvements in blood pressure in a few weeks.”

— Dr. Nieca Goldberg, Cardiologist (parade.com)

The takeaway

Addressing borderline high blood pressure through diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes can help people over 50 significantly reduce their risk of developing more serious cardiovascular problems down the road, potentially avoiding the need for prescription medication.