Do you pay attention to the readings when your blood pressure (BP) is measured at a doctor’s office or clinic? Do you know what those numbers signify, and more importantly, do you understand their profound impact on your long-term health?

Globally, 1.3 billion individuals live with high blood pressure, also called hypertension. This condition often presents without symptoms, yet silently causes harm to organs, increasing the risk for stroke, heart disease, kidney damage, and many other health problems.

According to the World Health Organization’s 2023 Global Report on Hypertension1, high blood pressure is the single most important risk factor for early death worldwide, leading to an estimated 10.8 million avoidable deaths every year.

In South Africa, the Stroke and Heart Foundation estimates that one in three adults lives with high blood pressure, and that it is responsible for one in every two strokes and two in every five heart attacks.2

The theme of this year’s World Hypertension Day on 17 May, “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately. Control It. Live Longer”, is therefore more than a mere recommendation; it is a critical call to action, urging individuals to understand their numbers and take proactive steps towards a healthier future.

Understanding your blood pressure reading

To understand the importance of blood pressure measurement, knowing what the numbers represent is essential. A blood pressure reading is expressed as two figures: systolic and diastolic, represented as, for instance, 140/90 mm Hg.

Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP): This is the higher number that indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart contracts or beats.

Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP): This is the lower number, representing the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.

Hypertension is diagnosed when either or both values are persistently elevated on multiple, correctly measured occasions. This means that even if only one of these numbers is consistently high, you may be at risk.

Blood Pressure Ranges

Normal Blood Pressure: Less than 120/80 mm Hg.

Elevated Blood Pressure: Systolic between 120-129 mm Hg and diastolic lower than 80 mm Hg.

Hypertension Stage 1: Systolic between 130-139 mm Hg or diastolic between 80-89 mm Hg.

Hypertension Stage 2: Systolic 140 mm Hg or higher or diastolic 90 mm Hg or higher.

Hypertensive Crisis: Systolic over 180 mm Hg and/or diastolic over 120 mm Hg. This requires immediate medical attention.

The problem with high BP is that it is a “silent” condition.  That’s why regular, accurate measurement is crucial. It’s the only way to know for sure.

What causes it?

Several factors contribute to hypertension:

  • Older age
  • Genetics
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Lack of physical activity
  • High-salt diet
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Tobacco use
  • Stress
  • Air pollution

Symptoms to watch out for

Most of the time, there are no symptoms. But very high blood pressure can cause:

  • Severe headaches
  • Chest pain
  • Dizziness
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Blurred vision
  • Nosebleeds

If you experience these symptoms, seek medical help immediately!

Managing hypertension

The good news is that you can control your blood pressure and lower your risks with lifestyle changes and medication.

Lifestyle Changes:

  • Eat a healthy, low-salt diet.
  • Lose weight if needed.
  • Get regular physical activity.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Limit alcohol intake.

Medication:

Your doctor might prescribe medicines like ACE inhibitors, ARBs, calcium channel blockers, or diuretics.

Regular Monitoring:

If your BP is constantly too high, it would be wise to invest in a blood pressure monitoring device that can be bought from most pharmacies. Most clinics and pharmacies also offer free blood pressure checks.

How to measure your BP accurately

Accurate measurement is key. Here’s a quick guide:

  • Don’t eat or drink anything 30 minutes before.
  • Empty your bladder.
  • Sit comfortably with your back supported for 5 minutes.
  • Place your feet flat on the ground, legs uncrossed.
  • Rest your arm at chest height.
  • Ensure the cuff is snug on your bare arm.
  • Take two readings, 1 or 2 minutes apart, and record them.

This World Hypertension Day let’s commit to taking control. Measure your blood pressure regularly and accurately, make healthy lifestyle choices, and work with your healthcare team. Remember, it’s about living a longer and healthier life!

Sobering statistics:

  • An estimated 1.3 billion adults aged 30–79 years worldwide have hypertension.
  • Nearly half (46%) of adults with hypertension are unaware they have it.
  • Less than half (42%) are diagnosed and treated.
  • Only about 1 in 5 (21%) have their BP under control.
  • Hypertension is a major cause of premature death worldwide.