In Mexico, approximately 40 million people suffer from high blood pressurea silent but lethal disease that, if not treated properly, can trigger serious complications such as myocardial infarctions, cerebrovascular events and chronic kidney diseases.
These conditions are among the main causes of death in the country, according to the head of the Hemodynamics Service at the Hospital Juárez de México (HJM).
The National Health and Nutrition Survey (Ensanut) Continuous 2022 reveals a worrying reality: three out of five Mexican adults do not have a diagnosis of hypertension. This lack of diagnosis and control represents an enormous challenge for the health system, since uncontrolled hypertension can lead to disability, poor quality of life and premature mortality.
Risk Factors and Lifestyle
In an interview on the occasion of World Hypertension Day, which is celebrated on May 17, the HJM expert highlighted several risk factors that contribute to the early development of this disease. A sedentary lifestyle, the consumption of processed foods with high sodium content, alcohol and tobacco are habits that increasingly affect people over the age of 30.
The specialist stressed that in three decades the majority of Mexicans will be 60 years old or older, which makes it urgent for a joint effort between health professionals and the population to promote healthy habits from childhood.
High blood pressure facilitates the accumulation of cholesterol in the blood vessels, seriously damaging the arteries. “The only way to stop this silent neighbor is to detect it, diagnose it and control it,” he said, recommending measuring blood pressure at least every 15 or 20 days and strictly following medical treatment.
Prevention of hypertension requires a comprehensive approach. The expert recommends a daily routine of physical activity, such as walking or running for at least 30 minutes, a healthy diet rich in vegetables and fruits, avoiding industrialized foods with high sodium content, not consuming alcohol or tobacco, and managing stress, overweight and obesity.
A person may suspect high blood pressure if they experience symptoms such as shortness of breath when exercising, a feeling of tightness in the chest, headache, ringing in the ears, and dizziness. In such cases, it is crucial to see a doctor for a timely diagnosis.
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