Past research indicates a correlation between high BMI and the risk
for cardiovascular disease. This report studies a relationship between
BMI and systolic blood pressure readings and cases of hypertension in
the surveyed population. The data provided may help produce a useful
insight into the relationship between BMI and risk of heart disease
through indicating factors.
Defining Body Mass index (BMI)
The CDC defines BMI as a person’s weight in kilograms divided by the
square of height in meters. A high BMI can indicate high body
fatness.
- If your BMI is less than 18.5, it falls within the underweight
range.
- If your BMI is 18.5 to <25, it falls within the healthy weight
range.
- If your BMI is 25.0 to <30, it falls within the overweight
range.
- If your BMI is 30.0 or higher, it falls within the obesity
range.
Defining blood pressure (BP) thresholds
As per the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association
Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Management of
High Blood Pressure in Adults (2017 Guideline)
Blood pressure is measured using two numbers:
The first number, called systolic blood pressure, measures the
pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
The second number, called diastolic blood pressure, measures the
pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.
- Normal blood pressure readings are defined as:
- systolic: less than 120 mm Hg and diastolic: less than 80 mm Hg
- Elevated blood pressure readings are defined as:
- systolic: 120–129 mm Hg and diastolic: less than 80 mm Hg
- High blood pressure (hypertension) readings are defined as:
- systolic: 130 mm Hg or higher and diastolic: 80 mm Hg or higher
Over the years, research has found that both numbers are equally
important in monitoring heart health. However, most studies show a
greater risk of stroke and heart disease related to higher systolic
pressures compared with elevated diastolic pressures. Hence this study
only observes the correlation between BMI and systolic blood pressure
(SYSBP).
