High blood pressure is one of the most common health risks in the U.S. — and most people don’t even know that they have it. 

It’s called the “silent killer” because people with high blood pressure often have no symptoms. And yet, over time, it can lead to serious problems like heart disease, strokes and kidney failure.  

New data shows that high blood pressure also is becoming more common among young people. Fourteen percent of children and teens in the country either have high blood pressure or are heading toward it, according to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study.

MPR News host Angela Davis talks with two cardiologists about the latest research on the dangers of untreated high blood pressure and the treatments and lifestyle changes that can help protect your heart. 

Guests:

• Dr. Jamie Lohr is a pediatric cardiologist for M Health Fairview and an associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Minnesota Medical School.
• Dr. Bhavadharini Ramu is an advanced heart failure cardiologist with M Health Fairview and an associate professor in the Cardiovascular Division at the University of Minnesota Medical School. 

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Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.