PUBLIC HEALTH OFFICIALS URGE FLORIDIANS TO KEEP BLOOD PRESSURE IN CHECK 

(Monroe County, Fla) — Each year, the Florida Department of Health recognizes February as Heart Month, a time to increase heart disease awareness and promote prevention and treatment at home and in the community. This year public health officials are urging Floridians to keep their blood pressure in check by knowing their numbers. Preventing high blood pressure, which is also called hypertension, can lower one’s risk for heart disease and stroke. 

Nationally as well as for Florida, more people die each year from heart disease than from any other cause. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a leading risk factor for heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other health problems. An estimated one in two people in the United States has high blood pressure and one in four has their blood pressure under control. 

Blood pressure can be measured by a healthcare provider, at any local retail pharmacy, or at home using a blood pressure monitor. According to the most recent guidelines, a normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mmHg. Elevated blood pressure is 120 to 129 mmHg and less than 80 mmHg. Hypertension is blood pressure that is greater than 130/80 mmHg.

In addition to hypertension, the risk of heart disease is increased by unhealthy diets, particularly those high in salt, added sugars, and low levels of physical activity. Tobacco use is also one of the main risk factors, contributing to around 10% of all deaths.

Heart disease and hypertension can be prevented and managed by practicing healthy living habits, such as eating healthy, staying active, not smoking, checking cholesterol, limiting alcohol use, controlling blood pressure, managing stress and talking with one’s healthcare team. More information how to manage blood pressure and prevent heart disease can be found on FloridaHealth.gov. 

[livemarket market_name="KONK Life LiveMarket" limit=3 category=“” show_signup=0 show_more=0]