Blood pressure (BP) is the force exerted by blood against the walls of arteries as the heart pumps it through the body. It is measured in two numbers: systolic pressure (when the heart contracts) over diastolic pressure (when the heart rests between beats), recorded in millimetres of mercury (mmHg). Normal blood pressure is typically around 120/80 mmHg. High blood pressure (hypertension) increases risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems, and affects approximately one in four Canadian adults. Regular blood pressure monitoring is an important health screening, as hypertension often has no symptoms but can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication.