How Does Age Affect My Risk Of Developing High Blood Pressure?

— -- Question: How does age affect my risk of developing high blood pressure?

Answer: With increasing age, our blood pressures tend to rise. It's normal for blood pressure to go up five or 10 millimeters of mercury as we go from age 50 to 70. But in individuals who are at higher risk for heart attacks and strokes, the blood pressure tends to go up much more quickly.