Do you feel shortness of breath? Feeling of pulsations in the neck or head? Severe headache?
These are just some symptoms of hypertension which is one of the leading causes of global deaths due to strokes, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular complications. The month of May has been designated as “National Hypertension Awareness Month” to prevent and control this deadly disease. This year’s theme is “Know your Numbers”.
The Philippine Council for Health Research and Development is spearheading the events this May in collaboration with the International Society of Hypertension and the Department of Health. By increasing awareness on high blood pressure (BP) worldwide, there is hope that this deadly disease would be prevented.
According to the latest WHO data published in 2018, Hypertension Deaths in the Philippines reached 14,488 or 2.38% of total deaths. Based on the same data, 23 out of every 100,000 Filipinos die from hypertension-related illness. Studies also showed the increasing number of young adults succumbing to stroke is increasing every year due to high blood pressure.
Recognizing the warning signs, understanding the risk factors including the signs and symptoms of hypertension is critical to seek medical attention immediately.
A healthy and active lifestyle is the key to prevent hypertension. But regular visits to the doctor is also crucial to “Know Your Numbers” and ensure a hypertension-free life.
