How does race affect blood pressure?

• A. African American adults tend to have lower blood pressure.
• B. No difference by race.
• C. African American adults tend to have higher blood pressure.
• D. Race only affects blood pressure in childhood.

Answer: (C)

Racial differences in hypertension reflect a blend of biology, environment, and social factors. In many populations, African American adults have a higher prevalence of hypertension and higher average blood pressures, often with earlier onset and a greater risk of complications like stroke and kidney disease. That pattern makes the statement African American adults tend to have higher blood pressure the best answer because it aligns with the strongest, consistently observed data. The disparities are not simply about biology alone; factors such as diet (including sodium intake), access to healthcare, socioeconomic stress, and other social determinants contribute and help explain why this group's blood pressure tends to be higher. The other ideas—that there is no difference, that blood pressure is lower, or that race only affects blood pressure in childhood—don't fit the broader, documented pattern seen in adults.