What defines Stage 2 Hypertension?

Stage 2 Hypertension is characterized by consistently elevated blood pressure readings. According to current guidelines, Stage 2 Hypertension is defined as having a systolic blood pressure of 140 mmHg or higher and/or a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg or higher.

The selected option, which states 160/100, falls within the criteria for Stage 2 Hypertension. At this level, there is a significant increased risk for cardiovascular events, and it often requires pharmacologic intervention as part of management to reduce the risk of complications associated with high blood pressure.

In contrast, the other readings provided—120/80 and 140/90—represent normal blood pressure and Stage 1 Hypertension, respectively. The reading of 180/110 indicates severely elevated hypertension, which is often classified as hypertensive urgency or emergency, and generally necessitates immediate medical intervention. Therefore, the choice of 160/100 as representative of Stage 2 Hypertension aligns with the established medical standards for categorizing blood pressure levels.