Chandigarh sees a boom in high blood pressure cases: 50 (image credit: ISTOCK) of more than 45 affected residents
Hypertension, also known as hypertension, has been rapidly forming on the issue of health in Chandigarh with diabetes, which has long been the main non-communication disease (NCD) in the area. Health experts warn that many individuals are unaware of their high blood pressure conditions, often ignoring symptoms that can lead to serious health complications.
Chandigarh Health Secretary Ajay Chagati said at the Foundation Day celebrations of the World NCD Federation last week, at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI), highlighted dangerous data. He revealed that 35.5 percent of adults in the center area suffer from high blood pressure – higher than the national average. NCD Risk Factor Data suggests that 50 percent of people above 45 years of age have high blood pressure.
High blood pressure: silent killer
High blood pressure is often referred to as a silent killer due to lack of clear symptoms. If left uncontrolled, it can lead to serious health complications, including stroke, heart attack, heart failure, kidney damage, and other chronic conditions. According to PGI experts, continuous elevated blood pressure is one of the major causes of premature deaths worldwide.
To combat this growing health issue, PGI’s School of Public Health has actively developed NCD prevention strategies. It holds extensive data on these diseases to develop targeted preventive measures.
The role of excessive salt intake of primary factors contributing to high blood pressure is excessive salt consumption. PGI, Associate Professor of Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology, Dr. Ashok Yadav said that the World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended daily sodium intake of 2 grams (equal to 5 grams of salt). However, about 65% of people consume an average of 8 grams per day, which is more than the recommended range.
The body maintains water due to excess sodium, which increases the amount of blood in the circulation. This excess stress on the heart elevates blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes such as heart diseases. As a preventive remedy, cardiologists recommend limiting the intake of salt and avoiding high-modal foods such as pickles, sauces, canned soup, processed cheese, frozen food and table salt.
Expert recommendations for management of high blood pressure
Experts recommend having blood pressure under 140/90 mmhg to maintain healthy levels. Strict control is recommended for individuals with diabetes or kidney disease.
Professor of PGI’s Cardiology Department, Dr. Rajesh Vijayvargia emphasized the importance of low salt intake, weight management and the importance of drugs in controlling high blood pressure. The chief dietist Nancy Sahni emphasized proper hydration, a balanced diet and increase in fruits and vegetable intake.
A recent PGI survey on diet and nutrition, which analyzed the reactions of 60 individuals with an average age of 54 years, revealed the upset pattern. About 48.6 percent of the respondents reported to be irregularly taking their drugs due to doubt about the need for treatment, while 14.3 percent admitted to forgetting disease. Another 31.4 percent of the drug completely stopped, assuming that their blood pressure became normal.
Effective ways to control high blood pressure
Health experts recommend several measures to effectively control and prevent hypertension:
Reduce salt intake: Limit the consumption of processed and high-modal foods. Opt for natural herbs and spices instead of table salt to taste.
Maintain a healthy diet: Increase the intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins while reducing saturated fat and processed foods.
Exercise regularly: At least 30 minutes of medium-spring exercise, such as fast walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming, five days a week.
Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing and yoga to reduce stress -related blood pressure spikes.
Monitor blood pressure regularly: Keeping an eye on the level of blood pressure helps in early detection and timely management.
Limit alcohol and caffeine: Excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption can contribute to an increase in blood pressure.
Quit smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease.
Ensure the appropriate medication: Follow the prescribed medicines strictly and consult a doctor before making any changes.
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