May Measurement Month

GET READY FOR THE BIG SQUEEZE

High blood pressure is the #1 cause of preventable death worldwide. Over 10 million lives are lost each year due to high blood pressure – often called hypertension. Yet, only 50% of people affected are aware they have it.

Over time, high blood pressure causes a thickening of your arteries. When arteries become thicker, the space in between for the blood to flow through becomes more narrow. When the arteries narrow, they clog more easily. Clogging can lead to a blockage, which can be a precursor of a stroke or heart attack.

BLOOD PRESSURE CATEGORY	SYSTOLIC (Upper Number)	DIASTOLIC (Lower Number)
Normal	Less Than 120	Less Than 80
Elevated	120-129	Less Than 80
High Blood Pressure Hypertension – Stage 1	130-139	80-89
High Blood Pressure Hypertension – Stage 2	140 or Higher	90 or Higher
Hypertensive Crisis Consult Your Doctor Immediately	Higher Than 180	Higher Than 120

 

What do the numbers mean?

Your blood pressure is recorded as two numbers:

• Systolic blood pressure (the first number) – indicates how much pressure your blood is exerting against your artery walls when the heart beats.
• Diastolic blood pressure (the second number) – indicates how much pressure your blood is exerting against your artery walls while the heart is resting between beats.

 

Which number is more important?

More attention is given to systolic blood pressure (the first number) as a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease for people over 50. In most people, systolic blood pressure rises steadily with age due to the increasing stiffness of large arteries, long-term buildup of plaque and an increased incidence of cardiac and vascular disease.

According to recent studies, the risk of death from ischaemic heart disease and stroke doubles with every 20 mm Hg systolic or 10 mm Hg diastolic increase among people from age 40 to 89.

 

“A simple screening can save lives,” comments David T. Youssef, VUMI®  Global Managing Director for the Middle East, Africa and Asia. “Make sure to take just a moment in May to get checked.”

 

 

Elevated blood pressure is influenced by various factors, amongst them:

• Family history – Having a family history of hypertension raises your chance of developing it.
• Diet – Increased amounts of sodium (salt) and insufficient potassium in your diet causes hypertension. It’s important to incorporate foods that are lower in fat, as well as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Age – Blood pressure tends to increase with age.
• Alcohol intake – Alcohol can cause hypertension, while smoking increases your chances of developing hypertension.
• Physical activity – Staying active can help you maintain a healthy weight and a healthy blood pressure.
• Stress – Increased stress leads to hypertension. It is important to learn how to relax and manage your stress with exercise, listening to music and meditating.

 

During May, many countries around the world are participating in #TheBigSqueeze, a global event dedicated to improving awareness about blood pressure. Find a list of countries offering free screenings here: https://maymeasure.org/get-involved/

Even if your country is not on the list, make sure to check your blood pressure as soon as possible. Elevated blood pressure can cause strokes, heart attacks and other cardiovascular complications. A simple, one minute arm squeeze could prevent this.

 

Sources: May Measure Month; Heart.org