Hypertension (high blood pressure)is the leading risk factor for preventable deaths in Australia, contributing to over 25,000 deaths every year through stroke, heart disease, kidney disease and dementia.
One in three Australian adults has hypertension, but only half of these people have been diagnosed and are receiving appropriate treatment.
The three pillars of hypertension control are prevention, detection and effective treatment.
The Taskforce is recommending the following prevention strategies:
- developing tools to assist with healthy food choices being more affordable
- targeting sodium reduction and increasing potassium intake
- promoting healthy bodyweight
- increasing physical activity
- reducing alcohol intake
If you would like to discuss your blood pressure with your GP, please click here to make an appointment or phone 8370 9777.