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World Hypertension Day is observed every May 17th in order to raise awareness and promote hypertension prevention, detection and control. High blood pressure is the main risk factor to develop cardiovascular disease.Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death.
More than one billion people around the world live with hypertension (high blood pressure), which is a major cause of cardiovascular disease and premature death worldwide. The burden of hypertension is felt disproportionately in low- and middle-income countries, where two thirds of cases are found, largely due to increased risk factors in those populations in recent decades. What’s more, around half of people living with hypertension are unaware of their condition, putting them at risk of avoidable medical complications and death.
➔ Measuring your blood pressure accurate is crucial to know if you have high blood pressure [systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mmHg (high number) and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mmHg (low number)].
➔ Providers are encouraged to use an automated blood pressure measurement device clinically validated to obtain accurate blood pressure readings.
➔ High blood pressure or hypertension is a silent killer because in its early stages, it rarely causes symptoms, and many people go undiagnosed.
➔ If you haven’t gotten your blood pressure measured in one year or less, visit a primary health care facility in your community to obtain an accurate blood pressure reading.
➔ Diagnosing and treating high blood pressure (hypertension) timely can reduce the risk of heart attacks, stroke, and kidney failure, among other health problems.
➔ When blood pressure is high, the heart has to pump harder, increasing the risk of damage to the heart and blood vessels in some organs such as the brain, kidneys, and eyes, among others.
➔ Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to disability, a reduced or poor quality of life, or even a deadly heart attack or stroke.
➔ Pharmacological treatment is always needed to control high blood pressure; additionally, lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, being physically activity, quitting tobacco products and alcohol, may reduce life-threatening complications.
➔ If you have hypertension, you should seek advice from a health professional.
