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Blood pressure is one of the most important indicators of your health. Many people believe that 120/80 mmHg is the “perfect” blood pressure for everyone—but the reality is more nuanced.
Is 120/80 Normal?
For adults, a normal blood pressure is actually below 120/80.
A reading of 120/80 is acceptable, but it’s closer to the upper limit—not the ideal target.
Blood Pressure Categories (Adults)
| Category | Reading |
|---|---|
| Normal | Less than 120/80 |
| Elevated | 120–129 / <80 |
| High (Stage 1) | 130–139 or 80–89 |
| High (Stage 2) | 140/90 or higher |
Blood Pressure by Age
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Blood pressure varies depending on age:
- Children: Evaluated using percentiles (age, height, gender)
- Teens (13+): Similar to adults
- Adults: Fixed categories (see table above)
👉 This means there is no single “normal” number for all ages.
Example Reading
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