High blood pressure is also called hypertension. It can be caused by genetic and lifestyle factors and contributes to a range of cardiovascular diseases. Managing high blood pressure is important to your heart and overall health. Lower blood pressure can be achieved through better nutrition, medication and exercise. If your primary care provider or cardiologist diagnoses you with high blood pressure, you may be referred to the CMC Wellness Center or Cholesterol Management Center for further evaluation, treatment and management.