The observance of World Hypertension Day provides a unique opportunity to raise awareness about hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure (HBP). This condition is often called a “silent killer” because many people who succumb to its complications often do not even know they have it. An estimated 1.5 billion people in the world have HBP and about 7 million people die every year as a result. Other than advancing age, HBP is the most powerful risk factor for stroke, heart attack, heart failure, and it is second only to diabetes as the leading cause of end-stage kidney failure. Knowing your blood pressure is important because most complications can be prevented if high blood pressure is detected early, treated, and controlled.
When your blood pressure is measured you will be given two numbers (for example, 120/80).
- If your first number is always less than 120 and the second is always less than 80, you have ideal blood pressure, or your blood pressure is in the “ideal zone”.
- If your first number is 140 or higher or the second is 90 or higher, you must talk with your healthcare provider because these numbers suggest that you may have HBP.
- If your first number is between 120 & 140 and the second number is between 80 & 90, you are considered to have prehypertension. This means you are very likely to develop HBP and a visit with your healthcare provider is recommended.
Knowing your blood pressure is important but it is not enough. You must also take steps to keep your blood pressure in the ideal zone. This year, the theme of World Hypertension Day is “Healthy Weight – Healthy Blood Pressure” and the four specific actions recommended are: Check Your Waist; Eat Green; Exercise; and Cut Salt. In addition to these, it is important that you measure your blood pressure regularly. If your blood pressure numbers are not in the ideal zone, see your health care provider to get an assessment. If you have HBP or are currently taking medications for hypertension, be sure to take your medications regularly, and consult your healthcare provider about maintaining ideal weight.
At PepsiCo, we believe that the scientific evidence is very strong for both the global importance of HBP and the use of lifestyle changes as part of a strategy to control HBP or maintain ideal blood pressure. In particular, a diet rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, and low in sodium, saturated fats, and added sugars is recommended along with moderate levels of physical activity on a regular basis. Our Human Sustainability efforts and the eleven global goals and commitments we have made directly support these actions. Our partnerships with groups such as the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation also support these healthy lifestyle habits.
PepsiCo has recently partnered with the American Society of Hypertension and provided support for publication and dissemination of a brochure to be used in its community outreach program. This brochure is currently available in English, ”Blood Pressure and Your Health” and Spanish “La presión arterial y su salud.” The World Hypertension League has also produced a resource on high blood pressure, for World Hypertension Day, ”Healthy Weight, Healthy Blood Pressure.”
