Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of arteries, measured as two numbers: systolic pressure and diastolic pressure. It can be influenced by various factors including age, gender, genetics, lifestyle, and certain health conditions. High blood pressure, or hypertension, can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Lifestyle factors such as a high sodium diet, lack of physical activity, stress, and excess alcohol consumption can contribute to high blood pressure.