Blood Pressure Management
The Challenge
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High blood pressure is the leading cause of death in the world.
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More than a quarter of the world’s adult population – totalling nearly one
billion – had high blood pressure in 2000. This figure is expected to increase
to 30% - 1.5 billion - by 2025 (WHO data).
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Diet and lifestyle modifications are an essential part of the management of
blood pressure and can favourably influence the overall risk of cardiovascular
disease.
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Small reductions in blood pressure can have beneficial effects in lowering the
risk of cardiovascular disease. Research studies indicate that reducing
systolic blood pressure by 3-5 mmHg can lead to a 15% decrease in the risk of
stroke and a 10% decrease in the risk of coronary heart disease. [Source:
Framingham Heart Study experience, Cook et al., NIH publication; Stamler R.
Hypertension. 1991;17(Suppl 1):I16–20]
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