World Hypertension Day

Government of Saint Lucia

Theme: “Measure your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer”

Friday May 17th, 2024, is World Hypertension Day. This is a day to raise awareness on Hypertension also known as high blood pressure which affects many individuals, families and communities. The World Health Organization reports that an estimated 1.28 billion individuals aged 30 to 79 years have hypertension and approximately 46% are unaware that they have the condition. Less than half, that is 42% with the disease are diagnosed and treated. In 2019, our STEPS survey results estimated that approximately 2 out of 5 Saint Lucians, have hypertension.

Hypertension is called the silent killer, because people who have high blood pressure usually do not have symptoms of the condition. Unfortunately, over time, uncontrolled high blood pressure causes serious damage to vital organs like the heart and the kidney.

In St Lucia, about 40% of people with hypertension, have their condition under control This is concerning since uncontrolled hypertension is the most common preventable cause of strokes and heart attacks which are the second and third leading causes of death respectively, in St Lucia.

This year’s theme is “Measure your blood pressure accurately, control it, live longer.”

Since high blood pressure does not usually cause symptoms, Let us all measure our blood pressure regularly at home or at our health care providers, including at health care facilities, where accurate or validated blood pressure monitors are available.

Controlled hypertension results in significantly fewer strokes, heart attacks, disabilities and deaths from these health conditions.

High blood pressure can be controlled by various methods including lifestyle or behaviour changes and the use and adherence to prescribed medicines called antihypertensives. Antihypertensive medicines are proven to be very effective in lowering blood pressure and preventing complications and deaths.

From August 1st, 2023, patients can access antihypertensive medicines available at the wellness centers free of charge. Additionally, through the Performance Based Financing Project, lab tests are also

provided at no cost at select wellness centres. The Government of St Lucia is working through the Universal Health Coverage Programme to make available free laboratory testing for all hypertensives and diabetics at all wellness centres.

Taking control of hypertension is another step in taking control of your life. Make a choice to take control. Make a choice to live longer. Visit your health care provider or your nearest wellness center for blood pressure measurements.

Make a choice and start by knowing what the numbers are. Measure blood pressure. Measure accurately. Call the Bureau of Standards for help with choosing the right blood pressure monitor. Use the appropriate methods to measure blood pressure. In addition, pay special attention to other measures that control blood pressure and overall well-being. Seek nutritional counselling, get adequate exercise and rest and stay hydrated among other things.

By taking control of your blood pressure, you're not just adding years to your life but also adding life to your years.

Again, measure your blood pressure accurately, control it, live longer. Happy World Hypertension Day.