Preventing Hypertensive Diseases

Hypertension (raised blood pressure) is rated by the World Health Organization as one of the main causes of premature death around the globe. At least 970 million people in the world have hypertension (Kearney et al. 2005).

Hypertension is just one risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and is the single biggest risk factor for stroke (Mackay & Mensah 2004).

However, hypertension is also modifiable and can be controlled through reducing salt in the diet, eating enough fruit and vegetables, regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight. The British Hypertension Society provides further information and statistics.

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