High blood pressure is a very common and dangerous condition. About one out of three adults in the US—or 67 million people—have high blood pressure.
However, only about 47 percent of these people have their blood pressure controlled. High blood pressure is called the “silent killer” because it often has no warning signs, and many people don’t even know they have it. That’s why it’s important to have your blood pressure checked regularly whether it’s at home, work or your doctor’s office.
The good news is you can take steps to prevent high blood pressure or to control your blood pressure if it’s already too high. Making lifestyle changes—such as eating a healthy diet that’s low in sodium and high in fresh fruits and vegetables, or being active and not smoking—can help you prevent or control high blood pressure. Ask your healthcare provider for specific steps you can take to control your blood pressure.
Take the American Heart Association’s Healthy Heart Quiz, Can you escape “Silent Killer?”
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