Spruill TM, Butler MJ, Thomas SJ, et al. - Researchers evaluated incident hypertension in a community-based cohort of blacks—the Jackson Heart Study—in correlation with perceived stress levels assessed annually for up to 13 years. Overall 1,829 participants without hypertension at baseline (Exam 1, 2000–2004) were analyzed. At Exam 2 (2005–2008) or Exam 3 (2009–2012), blood pressure ≥ 140/90 mm Hg or antihypertensive medication use defined incident hypertension. The participants were observed over a median duration of 7.0 years. During this time frame, the incidence of hypertension was estimated to be 48.5%. Findings revealed an increased risk of developing hypertension in relation to higher perceived stress over time in this community-based cohort of blacks. In order to attenuate hypertension risk, stress level assessment over time and intervention for persistently high perceived stress may be of help.