An increasing number of Americans are suffering from high blood pressure (hypertension), new statistics reveal.
However, the data also indicates that more people are aware of their condition and are receiving treatment than in the past.
Figures from the U.S. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute reveal that hypertension is on the rise among both men and women.
The institute attributes this increase to the rising number of Americans who are overweight or obese. The two health conditions are closely linked.
Lead researchers Paul Sorlie of the institutes Division of Prevention and Population Studies said that additional efforts are needed to address both hypertension and obesity.
Among the ways in which people may address hypertension include exercising, eating a healthy diet and quitting smoking.
Some people may also find they can help control their blood pressure by taking nutritional supplements such as oral chelation.
Approximately 29 percent of American adults have high blood pressure according to the report, which studied data gathered as part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.