ACE Personal Trainer Practice Exam

What blood pressure reading is considered a risk factor for metabolic syndrome?

1. 120/80 mmHg

2. 130/85 mmHg

3. 140/90 mmHg

4. 150/95 mmHg

The correct answer is: 130/85 mmHg

Metabolic syndrome is characterized by a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. One of the criteria for diagnosing metabolic syndrome includes elevated blood pressure. A systolic blood pressure of 130 mmHg or higher, or a diastolic reading of 85 mmHg or higher, is generally considered a risk factor for metabolic syndrome. In this case, a reading of 130/85 mmHg meets the threshold for hypertension according to various health organizations, which classifies it as elevated blood pressure. This level of blood pressure indicates a potential risk for the development of metabolic complications, making it significant in the context of metabolic syndrome. The other blood pressure readings mentioned reflect either normal or high-normal values, but the reading of 130/85 mmHg is the first stage of hypertension, thus aligning it with the criteria for being a risk factor for metabolic syndrome.