Betsy Rykard
leila.rykard@flhealth.gov
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 a 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.
Kimberly Allbritton, Administrator, Florida Department of Health in Jefferson, stated, “High blood pressure usually has no symptoms and, without being measured, cannot be detected. High blood pressure increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. Please discuss how frequently you should have your blood pressure measured with your health care team.”
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.
The Florida Department of Health in Jefferson County is holding Heart Month activities at the following locations. Blood pressure checks and other health screenings will be provided as well.
• American Heart Month Health Fair, February 18, 2022, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., at Simmons Store located at 6383 E. Capps Hwy. Lamont, Fla 32336.
In addition to these Heart Month events, any member of the public may obtain a free blood pressure check at the following locations throughout the year.
• Jefferson County Tax Collectors Office 500 West Walnut Street Monticello, Fla 32344
• Jefferson County Senior Citizens Center 1155 North Jefferson Street Monticello, Florida 32344
• Jefferson County Public Library 375 South Water Street Monticello, Fla 32344.
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