When it comes to blood pressure, “knowing your number” could help you live a healthier life, officials said Tuesday.
In recognition of World Hypertension Day, which is May 17, representatives from the North Dakota Department of Health, North Dakota State University and the UND School of Medicine and Health Sciences held a news conference Tuesday to raise awareness of hypertension and the importance of regular blood pressure screening.
“In North Dakota, around 25 percent of the community population has hypertension,” said Tiffany Knauf, hypertension management coordinator for the North Dakota Department of Health, “About 13 percent of those folks do not know they have hypertension.”
Knauf explained that hypertension, commonly referred to as high blood pressure, can be found in all age groups and usually has no symptoms. Lifestyle choices such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, refraining from smoking and “knowing your number,” or checking your blood pressure regularly, can help reduce the risk of hypertension, she said.
June Herman, regional vice president of advocacy for the American Heart Association, demonstrated a home blood pressure monitor at the event.
ADVERTISEMENT
Her result was higher than her usual measure, which she explained was likely due to just having given a presentation.
“But it shows why it’s important,” Herman said. “I’m rationalizing why my numbers are so high, and that’s why if you can continue to take your blood pressure in a setting where you feel comfortable and relaxed, you will know if it’s just a particular situation that’s increased your blood pressure or if your numbers are trending high.”
