High blood pressure – A Major Health Concern by Dr. Ivan Edwards

Introduction

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a global health challenge affecting millions worldwide. With it comes the increased the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Sadly, despite medical advancements, misconceptions, lack of awareness, and healthcare barriers continue to hinder effective management.

Populations at Risk

Certain groups face a heightened risk of hypertension due to genetic, lifestyle, and socioeconomic factors. Those with a family history, older adults, and individuals with obesity, diabetes, or kidney disease are particularly vulnerable. Additionally, people of African descent often experience hypertension earlier and more severely, influenced by biological predisposition and healthcare disparities. Limited access to preventive screenings, nutritious foods, and stress management resources further exacerbates risk, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions.

Prevalence & Risk Factors

Hypertension develops due to a combination of factors, some of which I have included:

• Excess sodium intake, leading to fluid retention and increased blood pressure.
• Limited access to healthcare, delaying diagnosis and treatment.
• Chronic stress and environmental influences that contribute to elevated blood pressure.
• Unhealthy dietary habits and physical inactivity, major contributors to high blood pressure.

Classifications of Hypertension

Blood pressure is categorized based on severity:

1. Normal – Systolic <120 mmHg, Diastolic <80 mmHg.
2. Elevated – Systolic 120-129 mmHg, Diastolic <80 mmHg.
3. Stage 1 Hypertension – Systolic 130-139 mmHg, Diastolic 80-89 mmHg.
4. Stage 2 Hypertension – Systolic ≥140 mmHg, Diastolic ≥90 mmHg.
5. Hypertensive Crisis – Systolic >180 mmHg, Diastolic >120 mmHg (requires immediate medical attention).

Consequences of Untreated Hypertension

Without treatment, hypertension can lead to severe complications, including:

• Heart disease – Increased strain on the heart can result in heart attacks or failure.
• Stroke – Hypertension damages blood vessels, heightening stroke risk.
• Kidney failure – Prolonged high blood pressure weakens kidney function.
• Vision problems – Retinal blood vessel damage may cause vision loss.
• Cognitive decline – Chronic hypertension raises the risk of dementia and memory loss.

Routine blood pressure monitoring, lifestyle adjustments, and medical care are essential to prevent these adverse health outcomes.

Treatment Strategies & Success Stories

Managing hypertension involves a combination of lifestyle modifications and medications, with improved success when treatments are consistently followed:

• Lifestyle Modifications
  • Reducing sodium intake while increasing potassium-rich foods.
  • Engaging in regular physical activity (150 minutes weekly).
  • Practicing stress management techniques such as mindfulness and relaxation.
  • Limiting alcohol and tobacco consumption to protect cardiovascular health.
• Medications
  • Diuretics – Help eliminate excess sodium and fluid.
  • ACE inhibitors & ARBs – Relax blood vessels to reduce pressure.
  • Calcium channel blockers – Ease strain on the heart.
  • Beta-blockers – Slow heart rate and decrease workload.
  • Vasodilators – Widen blood vessels, improving circulation and reducing blood pressure.

In people of African descent, diuretics (such as Hydrochlorothiazide) and calcium channel blockers (such as Amlodipine) tend to be more effective for blood pressure management. This is largely due to lower renin levels, which are influenced by genetic factors and environmental adaptation.

Debunking Myths & Healthcare Challenges

During my career, I have heard several misconceptions about this dease. Here is a sample:

• “Only older adults get hypertension.” → Hypertension can develop at any age.
• “I feel fine, so I don’t need treatment.” → Hypertension is often silent, meaning symptoms may not appear until complications arise.
• “Natural remedies alone can cure hypertension.” → While lifestyle changes help, medical treatment is often necessary for long-term control.
• “Medications are temporary.” → Many individuals require lifelong management for optimal blood pressure control.
• “I know I have high blood pressure when I have a headache.” → Headaches can occur during dangerously high spikes, but most people with hypertension experience no symptoms at all. Relying on symptoms rather than regular monitoring can lead to delayed treatment and serious health risks.

Additionally, distrust in medical treatments and limited healthcare access remain significant barriers. Strengthening patient-clinician communication can build trust and improve adherence to evidence-based care.

Proactive Steps for Prevention & Community Engagement

To reduce hypertension rates, individuals and communities can take proactive measures:

1. Routine Blood Pressure Checks – Early detection prevents complications. Affordable BP monitors make self-checking simple.
2. Community Education Initiatives – Spreading awareness on prevention through diet, exercise, and stress management.
3. Improving Healthcare Access – Expanding preventive care efforts, particularly for at-risk populations.
4. Advocacy for Policy Changes – Supporting initiatives that promote healthcare accessibility. Health is a necessity, not a privilege.
5. Personal Health Commitment – Taking control of one’s health through diet, exercise, and routine medical screenings. Prevention is far easier than dealing with complications later.

Conclusion

Hypertension remains a critical health concern, demanding education, proactive management, and systemic improvements to mitigate its impact. By addressing misconceptions, strengthening healthcare access, and prioritizing prevention, individuals can significantly improve their well-being and longevity.

By Dr. Ivan Edwards, FAAPMR, FRSA
www.drivanedwardsfaapmr.com

CEO/Founder