June is Men’s Health Month: Blood Pressure Awareness

Men’s Health Month and blood pressure awareness are of utmost importance when it comes to maintaining overall well-being. Men’s Health Month focuses on raising awareness about personal health and encourages individuals to prioritize self-care. By promoting healthy habits and emphasizing the significance of preventive measures, Men’s Health Month empowers individuals to take control of their health and make informed decisions. This month-long campaign serves as a reminder that investing in one’s health is an ongoing process that should be prioritized throughout the year.

Blood pressure awareness is an integral part of Men’s Health Month, as high blood pressure (hypertension) is a prevalent health concern with serious implications. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), raised blood pressure contributes to approximately 7.5 million deaths worldwide each year. This staggering statistic underscores the importance of monitoring and managing blood pressure levels. By raising awareness about blood pressure, individuals are equipped with knowledge and resources to take preventive measures such as regular check-ups, adopting a balanced diet, engaging in physical activity, and managing stress. Prioritizing blood pressure awareness not only reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases but also promotes a healthier lifestyle overall.

Here are some hypertension facts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

• A greater percentage of men (50%) have high blood pressure than women (44%)
• High blood pressure is more common in non-Hispanic black adults (56%) than in non-Hispanic white adults (48%), non-Hispanic Asian adults (46%), or Hispanic adults (39%)
• Among those recommended to take blood pressure medication, blood pressure control is higher among non-Hispanic white adults (32%) than in non-Hispanic black adults (25%), non-Hispanic Asian adults (19%), or Hispanic adults (25%).