Joburg observes World Hypertension Day
From January to March 2018, the city’s clinics screened over 314 572 patients older than 40 years for hypertension.
AS part of its drive to reduce lifestyle diseases such as hypertension, the City of Johannesburg runs awareness campaigns in all its regions.
To observe World Hypertension Day on May 17, the city is inviting residents to screen for hypertension and other chronic conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol and prostate cancer.
This year’s theme for World Hypertension Day is “Know Your Numbers”. This is to create awareness around high blood pressure.
Hypertension is a long-term medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. In South Africa, one out of three adults lives with high blood pressure and it is responsible for one in every two strokes and two in every five heart attacks.
Hypertension is known as a “silent killer” because there are rarely any symptoms or visible signs. As a result, more than 50 per cent of people with high blood pressure are unaware of their condition.
The city’s 81 clinics are the first point of contact for many residents seeking medical care. Uncontrolled hypertensive patients are reviewed by doctors at the clinics and are referred to higher levels of care where necessary.
From January to March 2018, the city’s clinics screened over 314 572 patients older than 40 years for hypertension.
The City of Joburg is a caring administration that is creating an inclusive society with enhanced quality of life. It is actively participating in ensuring that its residents are healthy.
The Department of Health and Social Development urges residents to look out for signs of hypertension. These may include symptoms such as headaches, shortness of breath or nosebleeds. But these signs and symptoms are not specific and usually don’t occur until high blood pressure has reached a severe or life-threatening stage. Lifestyle conditions such as being overweight, stress, smoking and old age also contribute to hypertension.
The good news is that hypertension can be controlled or even prevented by adopting a healthier lifestyle. Reducing fat and salt intake and eating plenty of fruit and vegetables makes a difference. Commit yourself to regular physical exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and limit alcohol intake.
The city’s health and social department co-ordinates 5km walks to encourage members of the communities to adopt a healthy lifestyle. The city’s health promoters also give health talks in the clinics about hypertension, nutrition and physical activities.
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