17th May (Friday): World Hypertension Day is observed on the 17th of May every year to raise awareness of hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. Hypertension is the leading cause of heart attacks, kidney failures, brain diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and premature death globally.
The theme of this year is “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, and Live Longer”. The first World Hypertension Day (WHD) was initiated by the WHL, (World Hypertension League) on May 14, 2005. World Hypertension League is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting public awareness of hypertension worldwide, Since 2006, May 17 is recognized as World Hypertension Day every day
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is when the blood pressure is above 140/90, and is considered severe when it is 180/120. It is a major risk for cardiovascular diseases, and affects billions of people globally.
Here is information of blood pressure readings:
- Normal Blood Pressure: When Blood pressure is lower than 120/80 mm Hg.
- Elevated Blood Pressure : When the top number ranges from 120 to 129 mm Hg, and the bottom number goes down, below 80 mm Hg.
- Hypertension Stage 1: When the top number ranges from 130/139 mm Hg and the bottom number is between 80 to 89 mm Hg
- Hypertension Stage 2: When the top number is either 140 mm Hg or higher and the bottom number is 90 mm Hg or more.
The prime objective of WHD, is to educate the public about the early signs of detection, and effective management of this serious medical condition and to make them aware of the preventive measures that can be taken to reduce the bigger risks and far reaching consequences of hypertension.
“High intake of salt, tobacco and alcohol use, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, stress, and air pollution are key risk factors for the rising prevalence for hypertension.” Saima Wazed, Regional Director (South East Asia) WHO said in a statement today.
Be Smart, Keep Your Blood Pressure in Check
The best way to know if you have hypertension is to get your blood pressure checked by a health professional or by blood pressure monitor (an automated device used to check blood pressure) regularly.
Some common symptoms of hypertension, according to WHO includes:
- Headaches
- Chest Pains
- Nausea
- Anxiety
- Nosebleeds
- Blurred Vision
- Vomiting
Take small steps for a big impact and be proactive
Blood Pressure can be managed through a few lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, proper sleep, and consuming a balanced diet with limited salt intake, and in addition to that blood pressure must be checked regularly.
