World Hypertension Day is observed on May 17 annually across the globe to raise awareness about high blood pressure and motivate the populace about hypertension prevention, detection and control. Hypertension affects more than one billion people globally and more than 30% of adults in the world. It is considered a main risk factor for cardiovascular disease, specifically stroke and coronary artery disease. Further, it also elevates the risk of chronic kidney disease, heart failure, arrhythmia, and dementia.

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The theme for World Hypertension Day 2023 is Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer. World Hypertension Day theme pays attention to effective means to improve awareness among the low to middle-income regions and appropriate blood pressure measurement methods. This health campaign was first initiated by the World Hypertension League (WHL) on May 14, 2005, to communicate to the laymen about serious medical complications and to deliver knowledge on prevention, detection and treatment. This healthcare event calls for the collaboration of healthcare professionals, media, volunteer organizations and governments across the world to combat hypertension and better quality of life.

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Significance Of World Hypertension Day

Hypertension is termed as the silent killer which increases the development of several cardiovascular diseases like myocardial infarction, stroke and heart failure. High blood pressure does not give any warning signs or symptoms whatsoever. Hypertension is prevalent among all socio-economic and income groups and rises with age. This health disorder is the leading cause of death and disability-adapted life globally since 1990, as per a global health survey analysis. The number of people with high blood pressure is predicted to rise by 15-20%, that would reach close to 150 crores by 2025. It is better to ease the problem even before it starts, so as to reduce the burden of hypertension rather than to handle the complications it tends to bring. Thus, to achieve this, World Hypertension Day was commemorated, which focuses on spreading awareness of this lifestyle disorder.

Read this article to know why it is important to monitor blood pressure and the right ways of measuring it.

The Importance Of Measuring Blood Pressure

Maintaining normal blood pressure value is pivotal in keeping up good health status. To avert serious consequences of uncontrolled blood pressure it is essential to timely monitor blood pressure and regulate the factors causing high blood pressure.

Inappropriate measurements of blood pressure can make it hard for people to get the right diagnosis and treatment. Even a minute difference in the blood pressure reading can differ in the treatment module. It is very essential to monitor your blood pressure accurately as high blood pressure doesn’t show any significant signs or symptoms. Moreover, checking blood pressure regularly can make a person more aware of their body and can also help healthcare providers to diagnose a health issue early.

Also Read: Hypertension Nutrition: Common FAQ’s Answered About DASH Diet

How To Get Blood Pressure Checked?

One can get their blood pressure checked at a doctor’s clinic or hospital or at home with the help of a blood pressure monitor. Also, the healthcare provider would decide on treatment based on the reading and would also ask the patient to make a chart of blood pressure readings. This chart helps your doctor understand the pattern of your blood pressure and helps him to make an effective treatment protocol and proper diagnosis.

How Do The Blood Pressure Readings Get Affected?

Several factors can affect blood pressure readings which include:

Anxiety Of Checking Blood Pressure: This is termed white coat syndrome. One out of every three patients having high blood pressure checked at the clinic or hospital may get a normal BP value outside of it

Sitting Posture While Taking Readings: It is important to rest your arm on a table at the level of the blood pressure monitor and placing the measuring cuff correctly in the right position may influence your blood pressure readings.

Food You Eat/ Drink Before The Readings: If a person had smoked, consumed alcohol or caffeine or performed an exercise within 30 minutes of taking the readings, then BP values would be higher.

What Is The Correct Way Of Measuring Blood Pressure?

Following these simple tips to get your blood pressure reading accurately:

  • Empty bladder before taking the readings
  • Sit in a comfortable and straight posture and relax for 5 minutes before taking the readings
  • Keep your legs uncrossed
  • Place your arm on a table at the chest's height
  • Avoid conversations while your blood pressure is being checked
  • The blood pressure cuff should be tied on the bare skin, not over clothes