World Hypertension Day

Why do people avoid regular checkups? After a certain age, it is important that you start taking preventive measures to detect life-threatening diseases. To spread awareness about this, World Hypertension Day is celebrated globally on 17th May. In this blog, we will be discussing major reasons for celebrating World Hypertension Day along with some health tips!

What is World Hypertension Day?

Heart diseases are the biggest reason for death worldwide. About 17.9 million die from cardiovascular diseases. World Hypertension Day is celebrated on 17th May of every year to create awareness of hypertension. The lack of adequate knowledge is one of the main reasons people cannot identify the underlying causes or able to detect the early warning signs. It was initiated by the World Hypertension League that is an umbrella organization of 85 hypertension societies and leagues from all over the world. The first World Hypertension Day was celebrated on World Hypertension Day and later changed to May 17th in 2006 and since then it is celebrated on 17th May. The theme of this year is Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer. The main objective of World Hypertension Day is:

1. Establish high‐capacity community screening programs for recognition of high BP in those at risk
2. Promote routine measurement of BP by healthcare professionals at all clinical encounters

Hypertension is not linked to age. A person above the age of 44 has more chances but 4 out 1 adult of age 20- 44 have high blood pressure.

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Theme of World Hypertension Day 2021

Every year World Hypertension Day is celebrated with the purpose to spread awareness among the population across the world. The Theme of  World Hypertension Day is based on the purpose to spread awareness to all especially to the region of low – middle-income groups because the people are not even aware of the effects of hypertension on health. For this year the theme is Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer. Encouraging people to measure and maintain their blood pressure regularly and correctly and suggesting ways to tackle for a healthier lifestyle.

Here are all the themes of World Hypertension Day from its inauguration to the current year:

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Yoga for Hypertension

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Importance of World Hypertension Day

The mortality rate due to hypertension is highest in all countries and even the people of countries that are developed are not aware of hypertension. Hypertension doesn’t only affect the heart, it affects other organs, causes chronic kidney diseases, etc. The awareness around hypertension treatments causes is worse in countries of low and middle-income groups. World Hypertension Day has created awareness through various activities. The participation from countries all around the globe has led to a decrease in the rate of hypertension. Countries spread awareness to their population through newspaper articles, media coverage, influencers promotion, participation of political leaders and rallies, etc. Hypertension is the silent killer as it has no signs. It is important that people are aware of the issue and plans out treatment, evaluate risk factors and adopt a healthy lifestyle.

High blood pressure is known as “Silent Killer” because there are no early signs or symptoms in most adults. That’s why it is important to check the level of blood pressure regularly.

Risk Factors

There are certain things that increase your risk of high blood pressure. It can be a health condition, lifestyle, or genetic factor. Here are some of the risk factors affecting your blood pressure, you can decrease your risk by taking preventive measure:

1. Diabetes can increase your blood pressure. If you are diabetic you should consult a doctor. Through professional guidance, you can keep your sugar level and blood pressure accurate.
2. Not eating a nutritious or healthy diet can also increase your blood pressure. Unhealthy fat, too sugary or salty foods, processed food, or not eating enough vitamins and minerals can take your blood pressure off the charts.
3. Lack of physical activities will also increase blood pressure levels. It is important you atleast go for regular walks and keep up a healthy weight.
4. Obesity is one of the reasons for various diseases. The heart pumps oxygen and blood on our bodies but due to excess body weight, the heart is stressed to function properly resulting in various diseases and high blood pressure.
5. Tobacco, Smoking, alcohol, or drugs should always be avoided. Addiction or overuse can result in increased blood pressure. 

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Normal blood pressure is systolic: less than 120 mm Hg diastolic: less than 80 mm Hg

Lifestyle Changes

Wondering how can you keep your blood pressure at the right level? The little modifications in lifestyle can help you in maintaining blood pressure. Here are some lifestyle changes that you can adopt:

1. Exercise makes you feel fresh and also doesn’t let your body become home to diseases. Regular workout sessions will lower your blood pressure and maintaining a healthy weight.
2. Avoid eating food with high sodium or processed food. Even though the processed food taste better than healthy options but for your health, the right option is always nutritious food. Avoid excess salt in dishes, cutting back on salt will immediately decrease your blood pressure.
3. If you have high blood pressure, try to avoid or cut back caffeine. Some people experience a rise in blood pressure after consuming caffeine.
4. Take care of your mental health. Excess stress increases blood pressure. Keep yourself calm through meditation. 15- minutes meditation daily will improve your heart and mind health.
5. At last, monitor your blood pressure regularly at home. In case you see any sudden changes or a pattern consult your doctor for advice.

We hope you liked this blog on World Hypertension Day and gained insights that can help you in making changes in your lifestyle, avoid risks, and some useful health tips. Share this blog with your friends and family and spread the word. Stay connected with Leverage Edu and follow us on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook.