Blood Pressure Classifier (SBC)

Blood pressure classification (SBC 2020)

This calculator classifies office blood pressure (BP) for adults ≥18 years based on the Brazilian Society of Cardiology (SBC) — Brazilian Hypertension Guideline 2020. The category is determined by the higher of systolic (SBP) or diastolic (DBP) value, following category = max(class(SBP), class(DBP)). The categories are: optimal <120/80, normal 120–129/80–84, pre-hypertension 130–139/85–89, stage 1 hypertension 140–159/90–99, stage 2 hypertension 160–179/100–109 and stage 3 hypertension ≥180/110.

Diagnosis of systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) requires confirmation across multiple measurements or by ABPM (Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring — MAPA) or home BP monitoring (MRPA). Hypertension affects roughly 24% of Brazilian adults and is a leading risk factor for stroke, infarction and chronic kidney disease.

Applications

Primary care screening, occupational health exams, cardiovascular risk stratification, monitoring of antihypertensive therapy, public health initiatives and personal tracking of measurements taken at home with a validated device.

FAQ

Is a single high reading enough to diagnose hypertension? No. Diagnosis requires elevated readings on at least two different visits, or confirmation via ABPM/home monitoring, except for stage 3 with target-organ damage.

What is the “white-coat effect”? A transient rise in BP triggered by the clinical environment. ABPM and home monitoring (MRPA) help differentiate it from true sustained hypertension.

Does this calculator replace a doctor? No. It is an educational reference. Diagnosis, treatment and follow-up must be performed by a qualified physician.