Hypertension is preventable

 


 

Adults need to have their blood pressure accurately measured and controlled to live longer. Early detection and careful management of hypertension are essential.

Hypertension is a leading risk factor for premature death and disability, particularly in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region. Untreated hypertension can lead to serious medical complications such as stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure, kidney damage and other disabling health problems.

In 2019, hypertension was estimated to affect 38% of adults aged 30–79 years in the Region, or more than 104 million people. Shockingly, more than half of them (51%) are unaware of their status and more than 60% are not receiving treatment. Only 16% of the total number are able to control their disease.

Established risk factors include poor diet (high in salt and low in fruit and vegetables), sedentary lifestyle, smoking and alcoholism, and obesity. New risk factors include pollution (air, water, noise, light), urbanization and reduction of green spaces.

Hypertension can be Prevented by some disciplines to include in then life.

Hypertension (high blood pressure) is when the pressure in your blood vessels is too high (140/90 mmHg or higher). It is common but can be serious if not treated.

People with high blood pressure may not feel symptoms. The only way to know is to get your blood pressure checked.

Things that increase the risk of having high blood pressure include:

  • older age 
  • genetics
  • being overweight or obese
  • not being physically active 
  • high-salt diet
  • drinking too much alcohol

Lifestyle changes like eating a healthier diet, quitting tobacco and being more active can help lower blood pressure. Some people may still need to take medicines.

Blood pressure is written as two numbers. The first (systolic) number represents the pressure in blood vessels when the heart contracts or beats. The second (diastolic) number represents the pressure in the vessels when the heart rests between beats.

Hypertension is diagnosed if, when it is measured on two different days, the systolic blood pressure readings on both days is ≥140 mmHg and/or the diastolic blood pressure readings on both days is ≥90 mmHg.


Yes indeed, Lifestyle changes can help lower high blood pressure and can help anyone with hypertension. Many who make these changes will still need to take medicine. These lifestyle changes can help prevent and lower high blood pressure.

It is advised to eat more vegetables and fruits and Sit less. Be more physically active, which can include walking, running, swimming, dancing or activities that build strength, like lifting weights. Get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity, Do strength building exercises 2 or more days each week, Lose weight if you’re overweight or obese, Take medicines as prescribed by your health care professional, Keep appointments with your health care professional.
 

But beside that, it is advised to not eat too much salty food (try to stay under 2 grams per day), not eat foods high in saturated or trans fats, not smoke or use tobacco, not drink too much alcohol (1 drink daily max for women, 2 for men), not miss or share medication.

Reducing hypertension prevents heart attack, stroke and kidney damage, as well as other health problems.

Then it is better for a good lifestyle to reduce the risks of hypertension by reducing and managing stress, regularly checking blood pressure, treating high blood pressure, managing other medical conditions.

Cassien Tribunal Aungane, Editor

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