What You Should Know About High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
High blood pressure is a growing concern for many Americans. It’s important to educate yourself on the facts and signs of hypertension so you can do your best to prevent or manage the condition in your daily life. Thankfully, the YMCA offers a virtual Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring program that teaches you how to care for your condition. Here are 9 facts you should know about high blood pressure:
- High blood pressure doesn’t just happen to older adults. Nearly 1 in 4 adults aged 20 – 44 have high blood pressure.
- High blood pressure is often referred to as the “silent killer” because there are typically no signs or symptoms.
- Approximately 1 in 3 U.S. adults with high blood pressure isn’t even aware that they have it and are not being treated to control their blood pressure.
- Evidence suggests that having uncontrolled high blood pressure during midlife (ages 44 to 66) creates a higher risk for dementia later in life. It’s never too early to start thinking about your blood pressure and taking steps to manage your high blood pressure.
- Many people with high blood pressure don’t even know that they have it. The only way to know is to check your blood pressure regularly.
- African American men and women have higher rates of high blood pressure than any other racial or ethnic group. These individuals are also more like to be hospitalized for high blood pressure.
- Research shows that the simple process of checking and recording blood pressure at least twice a month over four months may lower blood pressure in some people with hypertension.
- According to the American Heart Association, more than 80 million Americans have high blood pressure, but less than half have it under control.
- High blood pressure is a key, modifiable, risk factor for both heart disease and stroke, which are two of the leading causes of death in the United States.
How Can the Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program Help You?
- Joining the blood pressure self-monitoring program is an investment in your health and a commitment to reducing your risk for heart attack or stroke.
- One of the benefits of the blood pressure self-monitoring program is the support you will receive to develop the habit of self-monitoring to lower or better manage your blood pressure.
- The value is in investing in your own health to reduce your risk for heart disease.
The program is facilitated by Healthy Heart Ambassadors, appointed and trained by the Y, who will show participants how to use a blood pressure monitor, encourage self-monitoring and facilitate monthly nutrition education seminars.