Managing hypertension

Hypertension: a widespread problem

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, affects 47% of adults in the U.S. Only about 25% of affected adults have their hypertension under control!

The ‘silent killer’

Hypertension is nicknamed “the silent killer” because, undetected, it could lead to kidney disease, heart attack, heart disease, stroke, brain disease, or dementia, and can have adverse effects on your cholesterol and pregnancy. Hypertension caused or contributed to more than 670,000 deaths in the U.S. in 2020.

Time waits for no one

Hypertension develops over time, and people are more susceptible to it when they make unhealthy lifestyle choices, have diabetes, are obese, or are pregnant.

45% of those with uncontrolled hypertension are at the most dangerous stage, stage 2 hypertension. Hypertension accounts for about half of heart disease and stroke-related deaths worldwide.

The importance of preventative care

Unlike many other health problems, there aren’t any specific signs or symptoms of high blood pressure, which is a reason it should be checked regularly. Up to 46% of adults that have hypertension aren’t aware that they have it. Hypertension affects the young as well as the old, as it affects almost 25% of adults 20-44.

Easy ways to prevent developing hypertension include limiting salt and alcohol intake, reducing stress, getting regular exercise, not smoking, and making healthy choices. If you already have hypertension, doing these things along with taking medication will help ensure a longer, healthier life!