Can your hypertension prevent you from purchasing affordable life insurance? If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to serious health conditions. But what if your hypertension is under control? Can you still get life insurance with high blood pressure?
High blood pressure (hypertension) is a problem for many Americans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 75 million American adults (32%) have high blood pressure. That’s 1 in 3 adults. Hypertension is a primary or contributing cause of death for more than 410,000 deaths of Americans each year. Only about half (54%) of Americans with high blood pressure have their condition under control.
Grim statistics, right?
What constitutes high blood pressure?
Blood pressure is measured by two distinct set of numbers: 1) Systolic Blood Pressure – the top number, represents the blood vessel pressure of your heart beating. 2) Diastolic Blood Pressure – the bottom number, represents the blood vessel pressure of your heart when it rests between beats. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
A “normal” blood pressure reading that is less than 120/80 mmHg. If your blood pressure is higher than 140/90 mmHg or more is considered “high.” You can be at risk of high blood pressure (a condition called “prehypertension”) if your levels are between 120/80 mmHg and 139/89 mmHg. According to the CDC, 1 of 3 Americans have prehypertension.
What rate classes can I expect if I have high blood pressure? Can I qualify for the best rate class if my hypertension is fully controlled by medication?
If your blood pressure is over 140/90 mmHg, you will probably not be eligible for the “Preferred Plus” (or “Preferred Best”) rate class. However, if it WAS 140/90 mmHg, but is now controlled with medication to be under 120/80 mmHg, you may very well qualify for “Preferred” or even “Preferred Plus” (best class). Each case is unique and the insurance companies will look at how long you’ve been controlled, which medication you’re taking and how much, as well as other factors, to determine your final rate. But it is not unusual at all for someone with controlled hypertension to qualify for the best rate class on your life insurance policy.
Are there things I can do to improve my blood pressure levels?
Yes. There are a few common-sense things to lower your blood pressure and improve your overall health as well. Here’s a few suggestions:
• Quit smoking and excessive drinking
• Lose weight
• Exercise regularly
• Eat a sensible diet
• Reduce stress
Again, if you can keep your blood pressure numbers within the parameters referred to earlier, you can greatly improve your overall health and your chances of getting a better rate for your life insurance.
Now call us at 800-442-9899 and speak to a real person! (yes, we’re old school.) You have enough things to think about, so we’ve taken the stress out of shopping for life insurance.
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