Final answer:
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a long-term medical condition characterized by persistently elevated blood pressure in the arteries. It is a silent disorder that often goes unnoticed, but is a major risk factor for various cardiovascular diseases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a long-term medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. It is defined as chronic and persistent blood pressure measurements of 140/90 mm Hg or above. Hypertension usually does not cause symptoms, so more than half of the people with high blood pressure are unaware of their condition. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease, stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular diseases.