Beyond Blood Pressure Screening: A Rationale for Promoting the Primary Prevention of Hypertension

1988 ◽  
Vol 3 (2) ◽  
pp. 5-11 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christopher L. Melby ◽  
Roseann M. Lyle ◽  
Gerald C. Hyner
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Blood Pressure ◽  
Primary Prevention ◽  
Scientific Evidence ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
The United States ◽  
Major Public Health Problem ◽  
Lifestyle Risk Factors ◽  
Lifestyle Risk ◽  
Prevention Of Hypertension

High blood pressure is a major public health problem in the United States. However, the underlying reasons for the chronic elevation of blood pressure (BP) are unknown in most cases of hypertension (HT), and medical care has focused on lowering already elevated BP, primarily by pharmacologic means. Although an important factor in the development of HT appears to be a genetic predisposition, other potentially modifiable lifestyle risk factors associated with elevated BP have been identified. This article describes the scientific rationale for encouraging health promotion specialists to focus on the primary prevention of abnormally elevated blood pressure. Nonbehavioral risk factors such as increasing age, history of HT, Black ancestry, and consistent BP readings in the higher range of normality, and behavioral factors including dietary excesses and deficiencies, excessive body fat, a sedentary life style, and frequent episodes of unmanageable emotional stress are addressed. Recommendations are made based on scientific evidence supporting the relationships between these risk factors and the development of HT.

scholarly journals Exploring Opportunities for Primary Prevention of Unprovoked Venous Thromboembolism: Ready for Prime Time?

2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (23) ◽  
Author(s):  
Aaron R. Folsom ◽  
Mary Cushman
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Risk Factors ◽  
Venous Thromboembolism ◽  
Primary Prevention ◽  
Physical Inactivity ◽  
The United States ◽  
Considerable Proportion ◽  
Current Smoking ◽  
Lifestyle Risk Factors ◽  
Lifestyle Risk

Abstract Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is an important vascular disease and public health problem. Prevention of VTE has focused mainly on using thromboprophylaxis to avoid provoked VTE or recurrent VTE, with little attention paid to the possibility of preventing the one third to one half of VTEs that are unprovoked. We review growing research suggesting that unhealthy lifestyle risk factors may cause a considerable proportion of unprovoked VTE. Using epidemiologic data to calculate population attributable risks, we estimate that in the United States obesity may contribute to 30% of VTEs, physical inactivity to 4%, current smoking to 3%, and Western dietary pattern to 11%. We also review possibilities for VTE primary prevention either through a high‐risk individual approach or a population‐wide approach. Interventions for outpatients at high VTE risk but without VTE provoking factors have not been fully tested; yet, improving patient awareness of risk and symptoms, lifestyle counseling, and possibly statins or direct oral anticoagulants may prove useful in primary prevention of unprovoked VTE. A population approach to prevention would bolster awareness of VTE and aim to shift lifestyle risk factors downward in the whole population using education, environmental changes, and policy. Assuming the epidemiological associations are accurate, causal, and independent of each other, a reduction of obesity, physical inactivity, current smoking, and Western diet by 25% in the general population might reduce the incidence of unprovoked VTE by 12%. We urge further research and consideration that primary prevention of unprovoked VTE may be a worthwhile public health aim.

scholarly journals Modifiable Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors among Indigenous Populations

2014 ◽  
Vol 2014 ◽  
pp. 1-13 ◽  
Author(s):  
Adam A. Lucero ◽  
Danielle M. Lambrick ◽  
James A. Faulkner ◽  
Simon Fryer ◽  
Michael A. Tarrant ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Cardiovascular Disease ◽  
American Indians ◽  
The United States ◽  
Alaska Natives ◽  
Indigenous Populations ◽  
Aboriginal Australians ◽  
Lifestyle Risk Factors ◽  
Indigenous Groups ◽  
Lifestyle Risk

Objective. To identify modifiable cardio-metabolic and lifestyle risk factors among indigenous populations from Australia (Aboriginal Australians/Torres Strait Islanders), New Zealand (Māori), and the United States (American Indians and Alaska Natives) that contribute to cardiovascular disease (CVD).Methods. National health surveys were identified where available. Electronic databases identified sources for filling missing data. The most relevant data were identified, organized, and synthesized.Results. Compared to their non-indigenous counterparts, indigenous populations exhibit lower life expectancies and a greater prevalence of CVD. All indigenous populations have higher rates of obesity and diabetes, hypertension is greater for Māori and Aboriginal Australians, and high cholesterol is greater only among American Indians/Alaska Natives. In turn, all indigenous groups exhibit higher rates of smoking and dangerous alcohol behaviour as well as consuming less fruits and vegetables. Aboriginal Australians and American Indians/Alaska Natives also exhibit greater rates of sedentary behaviour.Conclusion. Indigenous groups from Australia, New Zealand, and the United States have a lower life expectancy then their respective non-indigenous counterparts. A higher prevalence of CVD is a major driving force behind this discrepancy. A cluster of modifiable cardio-metabolic risk factors precede CVD, which, in turn, is linked to modifiable lifestyle risk factors.

Suicide risk assessment: searching for true positive

2015 ◽  
Vol 27 (2) ◽  
pp. 221-223
Author(s):  
Evan Podolak
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Young Adult ◽  
High Risk ◽  
Suicide Risk ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
The United States ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Major Public Health Problem ◽  
High Risk Populations ◽  
Associated Risk Factors

Abstract Suicide is a major public health problem and the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. Due to low base rates and the numerous comorbid risk factors associated with suicide, accurate prediction is difficult. This is particularly true for adolescents and young adults. In this article, some associated risk factors are discussed in the context of two high-risk populations (young adult prison inmates and young adult veterans) and several recommendations are made for conducting suicide risk assesments. General prescriptions for intervention are also outlined with the goal of reducing overly defensive practice and increasing the likelihood that high-risk individuals will receive effective intervention. Finally, several suggestions for future research are made.

scholarly journals Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Hypertension Among People Aged 50 years and more in Banepa Municipality, Nepal

2013 ◽  
Vol 10 (3) ◽  
pp. 35-38 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kedar Manandhar ◽  
R Koju ◽  
NP Sinha ◽  
S Humagain
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Risk Factors ◽  
Blood Pressure ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Structured Interview ◽  
Cluster Sampling ◽  
Major Public Health Problem ◽  
Access To Treatment ◽  
Arterial Blood ◽  
Associated Risk Factors

Background Hypertension is a cardiovascular disorder rapidly emerging as a major public health problem in developing countries and is the most widely recognized modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Objective  The objective of this study was to find out the prevalence and associated risk factors with hypertension among people aged 50 years and more in Banepa Municipality, Kavre, Nepal. Methods It is a cross- sectional, population based study which was carried out in Banepa Municipality from May 15 to June 15, 2009. Among total 11 wards of Banepa municipally, wards number 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, and 10 were selected by using Simple Random Sampling Technique and 405 subjects of people aged 50 years and more were selected for study from the selected wards by using Cluster Sampling. The structured interview method was used for collection of data. Mercury sphygmomanometers with standard cuff were used to measure the indirect auscultatory arterial blood pressure. Two consecutive blood pressure readings were taken and average of them was calculated to determine single value of blood pressure. Results The prevalence of hypertension was 44.9 percent (47.75% in male and 42.73% in females). Among them, only 32.9 percent (60/182) were previously diagnosed as hypertension. The higher proportion of hypertensive cases were in age > 65 years (55.49%) than in the age group < 65 years (36.32%). The prevalence of hypertension was seen positively associated with non vegetarian eating habits, alcohol consumption, and > 25 Body max index. Taking green leafy vegetable at least once a week was negatively associated with the prevalence of the hypertension. Conclusion  These findings provide important information on the prevalence, associated factors of hypertension in Banepa Municipality. Effective public health measures and strategies are needed to improve prevention, diagnosis and access to treatment of these 50 years and above population. Kathmandu University Medical Journal | VOL.10 | NO. 3 | ISSUE 39 | JUL- SEP 2012 | Page 35-38 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i3.8015

scholarly journals Prevalence and Risk Factors for Hypertension in Adults Living in Central Development Region of Nepal

2012 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
pp. 13-18 ◽  
Author(s):  
J Chataut ◽  
R K Adhikari ◽  
N P Sinha
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Risk Factors ◽  
Blood Pressure ◽  
Alcohol Consumption ◽  
Significant Risk ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Anthropometric Measurement ◽  
Bivariate Analysis ◽  
Major Public Health Problem ◽  
Cross Sectional

Background Hypertension is the commonest cardiovascular disorder and now regarded as major public health problem. It is a precursor to major diseases like myocardial infarction, stroke, renal failure etc. There are very limited community based data on hypertension in Nepal, so, information on the prevalence of hypertension in the population is desirable. Objectives To estimate the prevalence of hypertension and to explore the risk factors associated with hypertension. Methods In a cross sectional study , a total of 527 subjects (males n=214 and females n=313) participated in our study (age ?18 years). The participants underwent anthropometric measurement and blood pressure and answered a pretested questionnaire. Hypertension was defined as per JNC VII criteria. Results Overall prevalence of hypertension was 22.4% (males: 32.7% and female: 15.3%). Age specific prevalence of hypertension showed significant progressive increase in blood pressure ranging from 8% to 35%. Almost 40% of hypertensives did not know about their status. Bivariate analysis showed significant relationship of hypertension with gender, age, literacy, physical inactivity, body mass index (BMI), smoking and alcohol consumption. Multivariate analysis excluded literacy but all other risk factors continued to show positive association with hypertension. Conclusion Being elderly, less physical activity, obese/overweight, smoking and alcohol consumption are significant risk factors of hypertension. Therefore, intervention measures are warranted emphasizing on modifiable risk factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity and obesity to prevent hypertension.http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v9i1.6255 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2011;9(1):13-18

scholarly journals Prevailing lifestyle risk factors and its association with complications among hypertensives in a rural area of Kancheepuram district in Tamil Nadu

2017 ◽  
Vol 4 (9) ◽  
pp. 3442
Author(s):  
Geetha A. ◽  
Gopalakrishnan S. ◽  
Umadevi R.
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Risk Factors ◽  
Blood Pressure ◽  
Blood Pressure Control ◽  
Life Style ◽  
Pressure Control ◽  
Training Centre ◽  
Hypertensive Patients ◽  
Lifestyle Risk Factors ◽  
Lifestyle Risk

Background: Hypertension is one of the more common non communicable diseases worldwide. There is the need for life style modifications along with the treatment for managing these diseases. But some people may continue with the lifestyle risk factors even after the occurrence of the disease, leading to complications in future. The study was planned with the objectives of identifying the prevailing lifestyle risk factors and association with blood pressure control and identifying the association between the lifestyle risk factors and complications of hypertensive patients in the study area.Methods: This is a descriptive cross sectional study done in the rural field practice area of a Medical College. Using purposive sampling technique, 300 hypertensive patients attending the rural health training centre were selected as study participant. Data collection was done by structured questionnaire. Data analysis was done using SPSS 17.Results: Among the study group, males were 54% and females were 46%. The most common life style risk factors was sedentary type physical activity (50.7%), 27% of them added extra salt to their diet, 47.7% of them were current drinkers and 31.7% of them were current smokers. About 53% had controlled hypertension and 47% had uncontrolled hypertension. Physical activity and smoking have statistically significant association with blood pressure control. All the four risk factors like sedentary lifestyle, adding extra salt, drinking and smoking had statistically significant association with complications.Conclusions: Hypertensive patients who tend to continue the lifestyle risk factors are more prone to develop uncontrolled blood pressure which in turn leads to further complications. Thus proper health education, and awareness creation programmes needs to be done for lifestyle modification, as part of intervention. 

scholarly journals Prevention of Hypertension in Bangladesh: A Review

2015 ◽  
Vol 7 (2) ◽  
pp. 137-144 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tuhin Biswas ◽  
Sheikh Mohammed Shariful Islam ◽  
Anwar Islam
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Health Promotion ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Population Based ◽  
Major Public Health Problem ◽  
Hypertension Prevention ◽  
Healthy Life Style ◽  
Manual Methods ◽  
The Government ◽  
Prevention Of Hypertension

Background: Hypertension is a major public health problem in both the developed and developing countries and the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. The risk factors for hypertension, which can largely be prevented through simple health promotion and preventive measures, are mostly known. However, evidence on strategies for prevention of hypertension in Bangladesh is not available. The aim of this review study was to identify and discuss different approaches to prevent hypertension in Bangladesh. Methods: We performed a systematic search using electronic as well as manual methods for published and unpublished reports of prevention of hypertension. We then identified and discussed prevention strategies for hypertension suitable for Bangladesh context. Results: Several methods have shown to prevent hypertension. However, the challenge remains in implementing these methods in resource poor settings. Integrated action based on comprehensive policy and stepwise implementation should be adopted taking into consideration of local needs. Hypertension prevention should focus on awareness generation, health promotion and reduction of common risk factors using a combination of population based approach and targeted individual interventions. Conclusion: Consorted actions should be taken as a priority to prevent hypertension through intersectoral, multidisciplinary and multilevel approach by the Government and stakeholders for creating greater awareness and healthy life-style. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v7i2.22262 Cardiovasc. j. 2015; 7(2): 137-144

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