Why does the iOS 26 Health app use an incorrect blood pressure guideline? It lists a diastolic reading above 69 mmHG as being elevated. It should be for above 80 for a young individual, but somewhat higher for over 65 years old. It also does not consider the difference between diastolic and systolic outside the range of 30 to 50 as indicative of either heart failure (below 30) or cardiovascular disease (above 50).
iPhone SE, iOS 26
The difference between systolic and diastolic pressure is called pulse pressure. A common “normal” pulse pressure is about 40 mmHg (for example, 120/80 = 40).
Concerns outside that range:
For the blood pressure numbers themselves, common adult categories are:
It is unclear from your post which Apple Health app classification guidelines you have ticked (Checked). See the pic below.
The 2024 ESC classification deliberately lowered the boundary for “elevated BP” to include diastolic pressure of 70–89 mmHg. So if Apple Health is labelling 70 mmHg or higher as “elevated,” that is broadly compatible with the newer European approach.
A screenshot of where 69mmHg is labelled as Elevated would be helpful for analysis.
Not sure where you’re finding that info, but send Apple your feedback: Product Feedback - Apple
Thanks! I'd not found that selection for American Heart Association vs ESC. My French Cardiologist strongly disagrees with the more stringent guidelines for her older patients as it leads to unnecessary falls from dizzy spells.
Blood Pressure Range Errors for iOS Health App.
