Getting Life Insurance With High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure (HBP), also known as hypertension, is a major problem within the western world. If left untreated, it can lead to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), coronary heart disease, strokes, heart failure or to kidney failure. In basic terms, high blood pressure is where the pressure of blood against the walls of the arteries remains high over an extended period of time. This continuing pressure can lead to internal damage.
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In the United States, about 1 in 3 adults suffer from HBP. It's possible to have the condition for years without even being aware of it because there are often no symptoms. Nevertheless, even though there is a lack of symptoms, damage can still be done to the kidneys, blood vessels, heart and various other bodily tissues.
Life Insurance for People With Hypertension
There are a number of life insurance companies which do still offer a affordable policies (the "Preferred Plus" risk classification) regardless an individual suffers with slightly elevated blood pressure, or where an individual uses medication to control blood pressure levels. That said, every term life insurance company stipulate different criteria when it comes to setting a maximum for any given risk class level. One company may offer far more attractive terms than another, so it is well worth shopping around to find the best life insurance for high blood pressure.
A number of life insurance companies do not accept an individual who takes medication in order to control high blood pressure for the Preferred Plus risk classification, regardless how well controlled the condition is. Yet other companies may well consider that 130/80 is the maximum level to be accepted for Preferred Plus classification, where others accept 140/85 for the best insurance rates.
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Keep in mind that the lower the numbers the better. Ideally, the numbers should be around 120/80 or perhaps even slightly less, this being the normal level for a healthy individual.
Underwriters will take into account answers provided to the following questions when assessing which risk classification a person falls under:
- Are you overweight?
- Do you smoke or use tobacco products?
- Do you suffer from high cholesterol?
- For how long have you been taking a blood pressure subscription?
- Are you on any particular diet?
- Do you exercise regularly?
- Have your blood pressure readings improved over a period of time?
- Have you ever suffered from any heart complications?
- Is there a medical history of heart disease in the family prior to the age of 60?
- Do you suffer from any other health factors?
When making an application for most term life insurance policies, it's standard practice to undergo a medical examination. In order to get the optimal results and the most favorable readings which in turn will provide you with a highly favorable risk classification, the exam should be taken early in the morning (between 7 and 8am) and nothing should be consumed for at least 12 hours before the time of examination.
