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Blood Pressure
It is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke and is also the most common diagnosis for Canadian adults.
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a blood pressure of greater than 140 over 90. It is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke and is also the most common diagnosis for Canadian adults. However, you can’t see or feel high blood pressure and therefore it often goes undetected. Have your blood pressure taken at a health care provider’s office or check it at machines often available at drug stores, department stores, or gyms.
Although there are risk factors for high blood pressure you can’t control, there are many risk factors you can control. These include reaching and keeping a healthy body weight, being physically active, eating well, and quitting smoking. A new policy released by Blood Pressure Canada (2007) focusing on sodium, calls for Canadians to cut their sodium intake from 3500 mg to between 1200 and 2300 mg per day. This can be quite challenging given that sodium is added to many of the prepared foods that we eat. Read the Smart Steps to Live Longer Health Guide on “Keep Your Blood Pressure In Check”, for tips on how to lower your sodium intake.
High blood pressure may also be treated with prescription medication if lifestyle changes alone are not successful. Talk to your health care provider about your blood pressure. Make a point of knowing and caring about your numbers.
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