12 Questions
What percentage of adults with hypertension are unaware that they have the condition?
46%
What is the target for reducing the prevalence of hypertension between 2010 and 2030?
33%
What is the minimum blood pressure reading considered to be hypertension?
140/90 mmHg
What percentage of adults with hypertension have it under control?
21%
What is the main cause of premature death worldwide that is related to hypertension?
Hypertension itself
What does the second number in a blood pressure reading represent?
The pressure in blood vessels when the heart rests between beats
What is the primary way to detect hypertension?
By having a health professional measure blood pressure
What is a common modifiable risk factor for hypertension?
Consumption of tobacco and alcohol
What is the recommended blood pressure goal for people with cardiovascular disease?
Less than 130/80
What is a potential complication of untreated hypertension?
All of the above
What is the purpose of ACE inhibitors in treating hypertension?
To relax blood vessels and prevent kidney damage
What is a common symptom of very high blood pressure (usually 180/120 or higher)?
All of the above
Study Notes
Hypertension Overview
- Estimated 1.28 billion adults worldwide have hypertension, with two-thirds living in low- and middle-income countries
- 46% of adults with hypertension are unaware they have the condition
- Only 42% of adults with hypertension are diagnosed and treated
- 21% of adults with hypertension have it under control
- Hypertension is a major cause of premature death worldwide
- Global target: reduce hypertension prevalence by 33% between 2010 and 2030
Definition and Risks
- Hypertension: blood pressure ≥ 140/90 mmHg
- Common risk factors: older age, genetics, being overweight or obese, physical inactivity, high-salt diet, excessive alcohol consumption
- Lifestyle changes (healthy diet, quitting tobacco, physical activity) can lower blood pressure
- Some people may still need medication
Blood Pressure Measurement
- Blood pressure written as two numbers: systolic (heart contraction) and diastolic (heart rest)
- Hypertension diagnosis: systolic ≥ 140 mmHg and/or diastolic ≥ 90 mmHg on two different days
Risk Factors
- Modifiable risk factors: unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, tobacco and alcohol consumption, overweight or obesity
- Non-modifiable risk factors: family history of hypertension, age over 65, co-existing diseases (diabetes, kidney disease)
Symptoms and Complications
- Most people with hypertension experience no symptoms
- High blood pressure can cause headaches, blurred vision, chest pain, and other symptoms if left untreated
- Untreated hypertension can lead to kidney disease, heart disease, and stroke
- Very high blood pressure (≥ 180/120 mmHg) can cause severe symptoms (headaches, chest pain, dizziness, difficulty breathing, etc.)
Detection and Treatment
- Blood pressure measurement is quick and painless
- Lifestyle changes (healthy diet, weight loss, physical activity, quitting tobacco) can help lower blood pressure
- Medication may be recommended by a doctor, depending on individual health conditions
- Blood pressure goals: < 130/80 mmHg for those with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease; < 140/90 mmHg for most people
Test your knowledge about the global prevalence, diagnosis, and control of hypertension, a major cause of premature death worldwide. Learn about the numbers and statistics related to this condition.
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