Each year, more than 500,000 Americans die of heart attacks and more than 150,000 deaths are caused by strokes. Cardiovascular disease causes more deaths than all cancers combined.

If your blood pressure is 140/90 mmHg or higher, OR a health professional has said your blood pressure is too high, you may be at an increased risk for a heart attack or stroke. You can reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke with a healthier lifestyle.

Your doctor can tell you about the benefits of lowering your high blood pressure, quitting smoking, losing weight, and exercising. Ask your doctor what you can do to reduce high blood pressure and high blood cholesterol.

Your doctor also can tell you whether you should take aspirin while you are taking medication to lower your high blood pressure to prevent heart attack or stroke.

Your doctor will most likely recommend that you lower your high blood pressure before starting an aspirin regimen.