Key facts

• An estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30–79 years worldwide have hypertension, most (two-thirds) living in low- and middle-income countries
• According to the World Health Organization, 27% of Africans have High Blood Pressure.
• An estimated 46% of adults with hypertension are unaware that they have the condition.
• Hypertension is a major cause of premature death worldwide.

Overview

Hypertension (high blood pressure) is when the pressure in your blood vessels is too high (140/90 mmHg or higher). It is common but can be serious if not treated.

People with high blood pressure may not feel symptoms. The only way to know is to get your blood pressure checked.

Things that increase the risk of having high blood pressure include:

• older age 
• genetics
• being overweight or obese
• not being physically active 
• high-salt diet
• drinking too much alcohol

Lifestyle changes like eating a healthier diet, quitting tobacco and being more active can help lower blood pressure. Some people may still need to take medicines.

Prevention

Lifestyle changes can help lower high blood pressure and can help anyone with hypertension. Many who make these changes will still need to take medicine. 

These lifestyle changes can help prevent and lower high blood pressure. 

Do:

• Eat more vegetables and fruits.
• Sit less.
• Be more physically active, which can include walking, running, swimming, dancing or activities that build strength, like lifting weights.
  
  • Get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity.
  • Do strength building exercises 2 or more days each week.
• Lose weight if you’re overweight or obese.
• Take medicines as prescribed by your health care professional.
• Keep appointments with your health care professional.

Don’t:

• eat too much salty food (try to stay under 2 grams per day)
• eat foods high in saturated or trans fats
• smoke or use tobacco
• drink too much alcohol (1 drink daily max for women, 2 for men)