Caring Connections 'It’s pretty clear that health care providers are very concerned with blood pressure measurements. At almost every encounter with the health care system, someone checks our “vital signs” – body temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure. Why are we so concerned? The American Heart Association emphasizes that uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to a number of serious conditions: heart attack, stroke, heart failure and other serious threats such as kidney problems, aortic aneurysm and others. It is estimated that over 50% of adults in the US have hypertension – and the likelihood of developing hypertension increases as we age. Guidelines for interpretation of blood pressure readings have changed over the years. New guidelines for blood pressure were published earlier this year since evidence points to the need to maintain a blood pressure lower than what was in the past considered acceptable. The good news is that many adults who are found to have blood pressure that is higher than 120/80 (the gold standard) may not need to take medication. There is strong evidence for the effectiveness of diet and lifestyle changes: diet that includes more fruits and vegetables, whole grains and that limits foods high in sodium and unhealthy fats, and a life style that is as physically active as possible.
The only way you will know your blood pressure reading is to have to checked by a health professional at a health facility, a pharmacy, or with a home device – or at church on the 3rd Sunday of the month after both morning worship services. Everyone is welcome – and encouraged to take advantage of this service. It only takes a few minutes of your day!
You might've missed last Sunday's blood pressure check but mark your calendar for the 3rd Sunday in January for the next one!"
