When evaluating blood pressure, which reading is taken as the baseline for diagnosing hypertension?

The baseline for diagnosing hypertension is primarily determined by the systolic pressure reading. Systolic blood pressure refers to the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and pumps blood. It is considered a critical measurement because rising systolic pressure is often a stronger indicator of cardiovascular risk in older populations, where isolated systolic hypertension is common.

While diastolic pressure and pulse pressure can provide additional information about cardiovascular health, it is the systolic pressure that has a greater influence on the diagnosis of hypertension according to current guidelines. The mean arterial pressure, while useful in assessing overall blood flow and perfusion, is not typically used as the primary criterion for diagnosis. Therefore, focusing on systolic pressure is key in the evaluation of hypertension.