February is American Heart Month. Dedicate this time to educate yourself about health risks associated with high blood pressure. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is extremely common. Approximately 47% of United States adults have high blood pressure.1 In 2021, Public Housing Health Center (PHPC) grantees received over 354,000 patient visits for hypertension and over 140,000 were diagnosed with this condition.2Symptoms can go unnoticed for a long period of time while increasing the risk of acquiring heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, kidney failure and other serious complications. Because of the asymptomatic nature of this condition, it is also important to bring awareness about knowing your numbers when measuring blood pressure. 3, 4
Risk factors: 5
- Age
- Race
- Smoking
- Certain chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes)
- Obesity
- Excessive alcohol use
- Not being physically active
- Stress
- Family history
- Too much sodium or too little potassium in your diet
How can Hypertension be prevented? 6
Be physically active: Discuss the type of activities that would be best for you with your physician; 30 minutes of moderate work out a day, 5 days a week is the recommended minimum.
If you smoke, quit: Smoking contributes to the damage to artery walls; it is always beneficial to quit because over time it lowers your chance of getting heart diseases.
Eat Healthy: Choose low-fat and low-sodium foods. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and foods high in fiber like those made from whole grains and limit alcohol consumption.
Keep a healthy weight: A BMI of 25 or higher means you are at greater risk for heart disease as well as diabetes and other health conditions.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Men should have no more than 2 alcoholic drinks per day, and women should have no more than 1 alcoholic drink per day
Get Enough Sleep: Not getting the sleep you need can contribute to high blood pressure, increased risk of heart disease, and a stroke, hence it is important to get enough sleep.
Remain “heart healthy” for yourself and your loved ones by exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet and getting good medical care.
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