The correct option is 140/90 mm Hg.
Explanation
Blood pressure is the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of the body's arteries. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and recorded as two numbers: systolic pressure (pressure when the heart beats) over diastolic pressure (pressure when the heart rests between beats). Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition where this force is consistently too high.
Analysis
- 140/90 mm Hg is Correct: According to standard medical guidelines, hypertension is generally diagnosed when blood pressure readings are consistently at or above 140 mm Hg systolic and/or 90 mm Hg diastolic. This threshold indicates a significant risk for cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.
- 100/60 mm Hg is Incorrect: A reading of 100/60 mm Hg is considered within the lower range of normal blood pressure. Extremely low blood pressure is termed hypotension.
- 110/70 mm Hg is Incorrect: A reading of 110/70 mm Hg is considered optimal or ideal blood pressure for most adults.
- 120/80 mm Hg is Incorrect: A reading of 120/80 mm Hg is widely regarded as the standard for normal blood pressure. Readings between 120/80 mm Hg and 139/89 mm Hg are often classified as pre-hypertension, indicating an increased risk of developing hypertension.
Key Takeaway: Hypertension is clinically defined as persistent blood pressure readings of 140/90 mm Hg or higher, whereas 120/80 mm Hg is considered the standard for normal blood pressure.