New York Times interviews Michael Alderman, M.D., about research that found reducing systolic blood pressure below current guidelines can save lives. The study determined that participants whose blood pressure was kept below 120, rather than the current recommended target of 140, had a 25 percent reduction in heart attack, heart failure or stroke, or died from heart disease. This was primarily achieved by providing additional medications. Dr. Alderman urged caution, noting decades-long pill taking by generally healthy people may lead to unintended consequences. Dr. Alderman is distinguished university professor emeritus of epidemiology & population health and of medicine.