Stage 1 hypertension is defined as which of the following ranges?

• A. Systolic 120-139 and diastolic 80-89
• B. Normal blood pressure
• C. Systolic 140-159 and diastolic 90-99
• D. Systolic 160+ and diastolic 110+

Answer: (C)

Stage 1 hypertension corresponds to a mild elevation in blood pressure, defined by a systolic range of 140–159 mm Hg or a diastolic range of 90–99 mm Hg. This level sits above normal values but is not as high as Stage 2, making it the threshold classification for the milder hypertensive category in older guidelines. This distinction matters because it guides initial management: typically lifestyle modifications are emphasized, with careful assessment of cardiovascular risk to decide on whether medication is needed. For context, normal blood pressure is below 140/90 in older schemes, and Stage 2 is 160/100 or higher. Be aware that newer guidelines use different cutoffs (130/80 range for higher risk), but this item reflects the Stage 1 definition from the older framework.