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City triples its hypertension screening rate

The rate of screening increased three-fold, compared to the same period the previous year, when 190 295 persons were screened. Blood pressure checks are offered by City Health at all outreaches and basket of services roadshows.In recent years, City Health has noted a concerning trend, where more people in the 18 – 44 age group are being diagnosed with hypertension. <figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"> <img src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Images%202/World%20Hypertension%20Day%201%2017424.JPG" class="responsive" alt="" style="width:1817px;" /> </figure>The latest statistics show that the 3 294 new diagnoses were a near perfect 50/50 split between this age group, and persons over 45 – 1 607 new cases were 44 or younger, and 1 687 new cases were 45+.Nearly 80% of those screened were women.'While one expects screening numbers to favour women, given the greater willingness to confront their health, I am still very concerned that so few men are taking up the challenge. Hypertension, like many other lifestyle diseases, can be fatal if not managed properly. What's worse is the lack of obvious symptoms, which is why it is called the silent killer. I do want to applaud everyone who is taking responsibility for their health by screening, and starting treatment where need be. My message to everyone else on this World Hypertension Day, is to do the right thing, and get screened, for your own health, but also for your peace of mind. And even if you are diagnosed, treatment is available, so it really isn't the end of the world,' said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia Van der Ross. <figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"> <img src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Images%202/World%20Hypertension%20Day%2017424.JPG" class="responsive" alt="" style="width:2137px;" /> </figure>The theme for World Hypertension Day this year is 'Measure your blood pressure accurately; control it; live longer'Below is a list of possible triggers and causes of high blood pressure: <ul><li>Family history of hypertension</li><li>Diabetes</li><li>Obesity</li><li>Lack of exercise</li><li>Poor diet, especially high in salt, sugar, and alcohol</li><li>Smoking and tobacco use</li><li>High blood pressure during pregnancy</li><li>Associated illnesses if untreated If left untreated, hypertension can lead to severe health complications, including stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, peripheral vascular disease, visual impairment and blindness. </li></ul> <figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"> <img src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Images%202/Youth%20Clinic%20Belhar%202.JPG" class="responsive" alt="" style="width:906px;" /> </figure>Tips to manage or prevent hypertension include:<ul><li>Taking your anti-hypertensive treatment as prescribed (if diagnosed) and returning for your follow-up consultations</li><li>Engaging in at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily</li><li>Maintaining a healthy weight</li><li>Reducing salt intake to less than 5g daily</li><li>Avoiding tobacco use and limiting alcohol consumption</li><li>Eating more vegetables and fruit</li><li>Limiting intake of foods high in saturated fats and eliminating trans fat All City clinics offer routine blood pressure screening at every visit, and the public can have their screenings done at any of the 77 health facilities closest to where they stay. End</li></ul>

2024-05-16T22:00:00Z

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