Monday, February 11, 2008

Blood Pressure Screenings -- A Must!


It has become imperative that employees learn about blood pressure numbers. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends screening for high blood pressure in adults aged 18 and older http://hp2010.nhlbihin.net/nhbpep_kit/screen.htm#screen. One out of three adults has high blood pressure and doesn't even know it! That's nearly 50 million Americans! Those who are at the most risk:

  • Women over 60
  • African Americans
  • overweight persons, those with a family history of high blood pressure
  • those people with a high-normal blood pressure.

One of the ways to help employees achieve wellness is to hire a health professional to come office, take blood pressures and discuss blood pressure risks. People with borderline high numbers are much more likely to develop high blood pressure in the future http://www.ahrq.gov/clinic/uspstf/uspshype.htm. Although the consequences can be great, the disease itself often has no symptoms. A person can feel nothing and have high blood pressure! The only way to find out specific numbers is through a screening. Screenings are inexpensive. Lowering blood pressure can the reduce the risk for vascular disease, the number one health problem for all adult americans today. A carefully planned and implemented follow-up program may help some people make an appointment with their doctor and stay in treatment. Save health care costs down the road! It's a must for all companies today!

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