Q & A: How to Prevent and Control High Blood Pressure
Question: What causes high blood pressure?
Answer: People have high blood pressure, or
hypertension, if their blood pressure is
140/90 mm Hg or higher. Scientists believe that
genes and lifestyle habits, such as diet and exercise,
play a role. High blood pressure is a serious
problem that can lead to stroke, heart disease, and
other conditions.
Question: Who is most at risk for high blood pressure?
Answer: High blood pressure affects one in four
adults in the United States. People most
likely to develop hypertension are those who:
- have "rehypertension" that is 120-139/80-89 mm Hg
- are older than age 60
- are diabetic
- smoke
- have a family history of hypertension
- are overweight
- are African-American or Native American.
Question: Can you prevent high blood pressure from developing?
Answer: Healthy lifestyle choices may help
prevent's well as control "high blood
pressure. These include:
- maintaining a healthy weight
- watching salt intake
- stopping or limiting alcohol intake
- exercising 30 to 45 minutes on most days
- eating a low-fat diet rich in fruits, vegetables, dairy products, whole grains, fish, and lean meats
- getting enough calcium and other minerals
- not smoking.
Free Blood Pressure Pocket Slider!
High blood pressure can lead to many health complications. Keeping track of your blood pressure reading is the first step to taking preventive or corrective measures. To receive a free Blood Pressure Pocket Slider, an informative slide chart, please call
November/December 2005 Healthy Tomorrow
The editorial content of this online publication is taken from the print version of A Healthy Tomorrow published by Loma Linda University Medical Center.