World Health Day 2013

Today, April 7th is World Health Day. The 7th of April is the anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948. Every year a health theme is chosen which represents a global public health concern that affects the entire world. This year it is hypertension (high blood pressure). The statistics are staggering with 1 in 3 adults affected world-wide.

The risk of developing high blood pressure can be reduced by:

• reducing salt intake;

• eating a balanced diet;

• avoiding harmful use of alcohol;

• taking regular physical activity;

• maintaining a healthy body weight; and

• avoiding tobacco use.

High blood pressure can lead to other health issues/concerns like heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure. High blood pressure is also known as the ‘silent killer’; without regular monitoring of blood pressure by a health professional it can go unnoticed. Stress, lifestyle, and genetics can play a part as well.

Have you had your blood pressure taken lately?

Written by Victoria Brewster, MSW
SJS Staff Writer in Canada