Hypertension
What is hypertension? Hypertension is another way to say high blood pressure (HBP). HBP is defined as: untreated systolic pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher, or diastolic pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher or taking antihypertensive medicine or being told at least twice by a physician or other health professional that you have HBP. The estimated 2006 prevalence for high blood pressure (HBP) was 74,500,000 (35,700,000 males, 38,800,000 females).
Controlling Hypertension
- Reach and maintain a healthy weight for your height
- Make an appointment with your physician at least annually
- If you take medication for your hypertension, take daily as prescribed and DO NOT stop without permission from your doctor
- Watch your salt intake
Stroke is the leading cause of long-term disability and the third leading cause of death in the United States. Over 780,000 Americans will suffer a stroke this year and nine out of ten stroke survivors will sustain long-term impairment. Stroke costs the US healthcare system over 62 billion dollars annually.