World Hypertension Day, observed annually on May 17th, serves as a global reminder to raise awareness about the silent killer known as hypertension or high blood pressure. This year, the campaign focuses on the crucial message of measuring blood pressure to empower individuals to take control of their health.
Hypertension affects over 1.3 billion people worldwide, contributing to heart disease, stroke, and other serious health complications. In Macao SAR, it is the second largest killer, accounting for around 11% of all deaths. Unfortunately, it often goes undiagnosed as it typically presents no symptoms, earning it the reputation of a "silent killer." Indeed 1 in 2 people with hypertension don’t know they have it! Regular blood pressure measurement is the first step in detecting high blood pressure and enabling early intervention.
Through this year's World Hypertension Day campaign, healthcare organizations, professionals, and communities are coming together to emphasize the importance of monitoring blood pressure and providing accessible resources to encourage everyone to take charge of their well-being.
The Faculty of Medicine, at the Macau University of Science and Technology (M.U.S.T.), has produced a poster to remind citizens of this silent killer. The main message of the poster is “Measure your blood pressure, live a better life”. There is a simple table to easily determine if one is living with hypertension, or at risk of developing it.
Professor Brian Tomlinson, at the Faculty of Medicine (M.U.S.T.), emphasizes that "It is important to seek medical advice immediately if your blood pressure is elevated or high. Hypertension can only be diagnosed by a doctor, but regular blood pressure measurements will let you know when to see a doctor. Hypertension can by controlled by lifestyle changes and medication.”
Assistant Professor Daniel Baptista-Hon, also from the Faculty of Medicine (M.U.S.T.), adds that “There are many commercial blood pressure monitors for home use. Regular blood pressure measurements are the first step to manage high blood pressure. It allows individuals to detect any abnormal changes and work with healthcare professionals to make necessary lifestyle modifications or initiate appropriate treatment."
To learn more about World Hypertension Day and find resources for blood pressure measurement and management, please visit the International Society of Hypertension World Hypertension Day 2023 webpage (https://ish-world.com/world-hypertension-day-2023/) or the Chinese Hypertension League (https://www.chlonline.cn/).
