Which BP category corresponds to Stage II hypertension?

• A. Systolic >140 or diastolic >90
• B. Systolic 120-129 and diastolic <80
• C. Systolic 130-139 or diastolic 80-89
• D. Systolic <120 and diastolic <80

Answer: (A)

Stage II hypertension is the higher BP category defined as systolic at least 140 mm Hg or diastolic at least 90 mm Hg. This level signals greater cardiovascular risk and typically calls for initiation of pharmacologic therapy along with lifestyle changes to bring blood pressure down. The option describing systolic above 140 or diastolic above 90 matches this threshold, making it the correct choice. The other ranges correspond to normal, elevated, or Stage I hypertension (130–139 or 80–89).