High Blood Pressure: The Silent Killer
One in three adults has high blood pressure; half are unaware.
Dr. Marc Dufresne
Cardiologist
High blood pressure (HTA) is defined by a systolic pressure greater than or equal to 140 mmHg and/or a diastolic pressure greater than or equal to 90 mmHg, measured in the doctor's office. It is the leading risk factor for mortality worldwide.
Why it's Dangerous
Persistently high blood pressure silently damages artery walls, promoting:
- Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries)
- Stroke (cerebrovascular accident)
- Myocardial infarction
- Chronic kidney failure
- Heart failure
Modifiable Risk Factors
- Excess salt (> 5 g/day recommended)
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Overweight and abdominal obesity
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Chronic stress
- Smoking
Management
Lifestyle and dietary measures are always the first step:
- Reduce salt to less than 5 g/day
- Engage in 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week
- Adopt a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and potassium (DASH diet)
- Limit alcohol to a maximum of 2 drinks/day
If these measures are not sufficient, medication is initiated. The main classes are ACE inhibitors, ARBs, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics.
Have your blood pressure measured at least once a year. It's a simple act that can save lives.
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