Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

2-minute read
17 May 2023 | 22:00 CAT

Image: Pngtree

On May 17th, World Hypertension Day is celebrated, a day dedicated to highlighting the importance of monitoring blood pressure and bringing global awareness to the 1 billion people living with high blood pressure worldwide. The 2023 World Hypertension Day 2023 theme is ‘Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer’. Focusing on combating low awareness rates worldwide, especially in low to middle-income areas and focusing on accurate BP measurement.

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high.
Usually, hypertension is defined as blood pressure above 140/90 and is considered severe if the pressure is above 180/120.

Dr Mosima Mabinda explains the fundamental causes of hypertension. She said there are things which put one at risk of getting essential hypertension; it is insidious and develops over time. Some known associated risk factors include leading an unhealthy lifestyle, excess body weight, smoking and lifestyle behaviours.

Hypertension is a significant cause of various health problems, such as strokes, heart attacks and kidney disease, and can also contribute to dementia. Many people who suffer from hypertension are unaware that they have it, as there can be no symptoms; often, people only find out after a heart attack or stroke.

Dr Mabiunda reiterates the importance of screening. She said Vitality encourages members to complete annual health checks, which creates a yearly occurrence in investing time to know one’s health status, with the assistance of early intervention if needed.

Listen to the full interview with Mufti Yusuf Moosagie on Your World Today.