Minnesota health officials are urging residents to check their blood pressure this February, as the state observes a concerning trend in hypertension rates. Approximately 30% of Minnesota adults – nearly 1.4 million people – reported having high blood pressure in 2023, placing the state among the seven lowest nationally, but still representing a significant public health challenge.
Hypertensive diseases were listed as a contributing factor in 14,225 Minnesota deaths in 2022, accounting for almost 28% of all fatalities in the state. This underscores the severity of the condition and its impact on overall mortality.
Disparities in hypertension rates are evident across demographic groups. Black or African American Minnesotans report high blood pressure at a rate of 35%, compared to 28% of the overall Minnesota adult population, after adjusting for age. Adults with disabilities also face a heightened risk, with 37% reporting hypertension, more than 12 percentage points higher than those without disabilities (compared to 25%). This disparity is particularly pronounced among those with disabilities affecting vision, mobility and self-care.
Socioeconomic factors also play a role. Nearly 31% of Minnesotan adults in households earning less than $35,000 annually report having high blood pressure, four percentage points higher than the statewide average.
The Minnesota Department of Health offers resources and information on cardiovascular health, including high blood pressure, through its Cardiovascular Health Program. Contact information for the program is available via email at health.heart@state.mn.us and health.stroke@state.mn.us.
CentraCare Heart & Vascular Center in St. Cloud operates a dedicated Hypertension Clinic, the only one of its kind in Central and West Central Minnesota, focused on reducing the risk of stroke, kidney failure, and heart disease associated with high blood pressure.
