Heather Ainsley
ECB Publishing, Inc.
High blood pressure is often referred to as the “silent killer,” because there are often no symptoms that signify when an individual is suffering from it, which means it is more likely to be left untreated. Shockingly, high blood pressure affects nearly half of the entire adult population in the United States, yet many people don't even know they have it. If left untreated, high blood pressure can significantly increase an individual's risk of heart attack or stroke, which are among the leading causes of death in the U.S. The good news is that even if you don't currently have this condition, it is easily preventable, and if you do already have it, it is treatable.
The most effective way to prevent or treat high blood pressure is to see if you have it, first and foremost. Starting tomorrow, April 6, at 3 p.m., the Florida Department of Health in Jefferson County is launching a free heart-monitoring program. This program is called the Heart Health Ambassador Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program, and it is a four-month program that is dedicated to helping individuals identify and manage their high blood pressure and limit their risk of heart attack and stroke.
The program includes regular 10-minute consultations with a program facilitator during regular drop-in office hours, weekly check-ins from the program facilitator by phone, email or text, and access to monthly nutrition education seminars. The program is free to all participants and can help develop the habit of self-monitoring and educate individuals on how they can best manage their blood pressure and take care of their heart.
The Florida Department of Health in Jefferson County is located at 1255 W. Jefferson St., in Monticello. To register, call (850) 427-4006. There will be free blood pressure monitors available for participants while supplies last.
High blood pressure can affect individuals of any age, and it is estimated that nearly one in four adults aged 20-44 currently have high blood pressure. Recent studies have also shown that high blood pressure is linked to a higher risk of dementia and loss of cognitive function.
It is never too late to start thinking about your heart health. And it is certainly never too early.