Which group of individuals is at higher risk for developing hypertension?

Individuals with a family history of hypertension are at higher risk for developing this condition due to genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that may be inherited. Hypertension often runs in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition that can affect how blood pressure is regulated within the body. This risk is further compounded by common lifestyle choices shared within families, such as dietary habits and physical activity levels.

While other groups, such as active athletes or individuals under 20 years old, generally tend to have lower rates of hypertension due to their lifestyle and physiological characteristics, those with a family history carry a higher risk due to their genetic background. Similarly, individuals with low body weight are not associated with higher hypertension risks; in fact, lower body weight is often linked to healthier blood pressure levels. Understanding these risk factors is crucial in managing and preventing hypertension effectively.