The Silent Killer — sounds like a detective novel.  Unfortunately, we are talking about high blood pressure or hypertension, and that is no fiction.  

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a public health epidemic. Here are the facts: 

  • Approximately 4 in 10 adults over age 25 have hypertension, and in many countries, another 1 in 5 have pre-hypertension. 
  • An estimated 9/10 adults living to 80 years of age will develop hypertension. 
  • One-half of blood pressure-related diseases occur in people with higher levels of blood pressure, even within the normal range. 

But you don't have to be a victim. The Mayo Clinic lists ten things you can do to catch this killer before it catches you. 

Lose extra pounds and watch your waistline – men's waists no more than 40 inches around, and women no more than 35 inches. 

Exercise regularly. 

Eat a healthy diet. 

Reduce salt in your diet. 

Limit alcohol intake. 

Quit smoking. 

Get a good night's sleep. 

Reduce stress 

Monitor and treat your blood pressure so that high numbers don't sneak up on you. 

Get help to fight this killer—ask family and friends to support your goal or join a support group. 

Take the small steps to guard your health.

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