Latest news with #MeasurementMonth
The Citizen
18-05-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
High blood pressure can affect anyone
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, occurs when the force of blood against the walls of your arteries is too high. According to Dr Sekanamisha Tema, head of internal medicine at Edenvale Hospital, it can be caused by stress, being overweight, consuming salty or fatty foods, smoking, or a lack of exercise. 'Many people don't feel unwell, but common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, chest pain, and fatigue. Hypertension can be managed with medication, regular exercise, and a healthy diet. Avoid salty snacks, red meat, fried foods, alcohol, and processed foods. Instead, focus on eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. ALSO READ: Silent but deadly: Check your blood pressure this May Measurement Month 'If left untreated, hypertension can lead to heart problems, stroke, or kidney disease. It is important to monitor your blood pressure regularly,' said Tema. Hypertension can affect anyone, but some groups are at a higher risk: • People over 40 are more likely to develop high blood pressure, with the risk increasing as they age. • Men are more likely to experience high blood pressure before the age of 55. • Women face an increased risk after menopause, typically after the age of 55. Even children and teenagers can develop hypertension, especially if they are overweight or have kidney problems, although this is less common. Sibongile Mnguni (65) was recently diagnosed with hypertension after experiencing persistent headaches and high temperatures that wouldn't subside. At first, she attributed the headaches to fatigue, but after visiting her GP, it was confirmed that her blood pressure was unusually high. Her diagnosis and the initiation of hypertensive medication were both new and frightening experiences for her. 'I was concerned because being on chronic medication was never part of my plan. I always thought I was healthy and in good shape,' she said. ALSO READ: Seven ways of helping to control your blood pressure Dr Tema explained that she could maintain a healthy lifestyle by adhering to the prescribed medication schedule and following a diet low in salt and processed fats. 'I am no longer where I was five months ago. I'm stronger and more mindful of what I eat, and I ensure that I take my medication on time every day. My doctors are pleased with my progress,' she added. Sibongile also notes that while she had always heard about hypertension, she never thought she was at risk due to her generally good health in her younger years. 'At first, I thought it was just menopause, and that delay almost led to me having a stroke. Thankfully, it was diagnosed in time,' she stated. Patients who experience symptoms that are concerning should visit their nearest clinic and avoid sharing medication that has not been prescribed to them. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
IOL News
13-05-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Salty tastes, serious risks: how cutting back on salt can save your life
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends consuming no more than 5 grams of salt per day, roughly a teaspoon. Image: Monicore/Pexels Salt is the secret ingredient that brings our favourite meals to life. From the comforting aroma of a potjie stewing on the fire to the irresistible bite of ikota, South Africans love flavour, and salt often takes centre stage. But behind the savoury delight lies a silent threat that could be putting your health and even your life at risk. This May Measurement Month, health experts are calling on South Africans to take a closer look at their salt consumption. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is one of the leading health challenges in the country, yet many remain unaware of its dangers. A large proportion of those with hypertension in SA remain undiagnosed, with estimates ranging from 46% to 50% unaware, according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, leaving them vulnerable to serious health complications. But what does salt have to do with this? A lot. Studies show that excessive salt intake is a major contributor to high blood pressure, which, in turn, significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), SA's second leading cause of death. But behind the savoury delight lies a silent threat that could be putting your health and even your life at risk. This May Measurement Month, health experts are calling on South Africans to take a closer look at their salt consumption. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is one of the leading health challenges in the country, yet many remain unaware of its dangers. A large proportion of those with hypertension in SA remain undiagnosed, with estimates ranging from 46% to 50% unaware, according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, leaving them vulnerable to serious health complications. But what does salt have to do with this? A lot. Studies show that excessive salt intake is a major contributor to high blood pressure, which, in turn, significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), SA's second leading cause of death. Experiment with herbs, garlic, ginger, basil, and paprika to add flavour without relying on salt. Image: ArtHouse Studio/Pexels Here are five lifesaving reasons why reducing your salt intake may be the best health decision you make this year. Reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases Eating too much salt raises your blood pressure, putting strain on your heart and blood vessels. Over time, this can lead to severe complications like heart attacks and strokes, two of the most common causes of death worldwide. In SA, CVD remains a leading cause of mortality. And the numbers don't lie: high blood pressure is responsible for nearly 13% of all deaths globally. By cutting back on salt, you can lower your blood pressure and, with it, your risk of heart disease, such as heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and various conditions like arrhythmias and heart valve problems( basically any heart problems). Reduce the risk of kidney disease Our kidneys play a crucial role in filtering excess fluids and waste from our blood. Too much salt disrupts this process, causing your body to retain water, which puts added pressure on your kidneys. Over time, this can lead to kidney damage or even kidney failure. Protect your bones from osteoporosis Excessive salt intake increases calcium loss through urine, which can lead to reduced bone density over time. This increases the risk of osteoporosis, a condition where bones become brittle and prone to fractures. For many South Africans, especially women over 50 years, who are at higher risk, a low-salt diet combined with calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified cereals can help maintain strong, healthy bones. Reduce your risk of stomach cancer Research has linked high salt consumption to an increased risk of gastric cancer. Salt damages the stomach lining and can contribute to the growth of harmful bacteria, such as Helicobacter pylori, which is known to cause stomach ulcers and, in some cases, cancer. Given that stomach cancer often develops silently and is diagnosed at advanced stages, prevention is crucial. Opting for fresh, whole foods rather than heavily processed, salty snacks is a simple yet effective way to lower your risk. Improve your overall quality of life High blood pressure, driven by excess salt, doesn't just increase the risk of life-threatening conditions, it can also reduce your overall quality of life. Symptoms like early morning headaches, nosebleeds, irregular heart rhythms, and vision changes can disrupt your daily routine. Left unmanaged, hypertension can lead to chronic fatigue, cognitive decline, and even dementia. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends consuming no more than 5 grams of salt per day, roughly a teaspoon. Yet, studies show that most adults consume double this amount, often without realising it. Hidden salts in processed foods like bread, instant noodles, and sauces are major culprits. How to start reducing your salt intake: Check the sodium content in packaged foods and opt for low-sodium alternatives. Preparing meals from scratch gives you control over how much salt goes into your food. Experiment with herbs, garlic, ginger, basil, and paprika to add flavour without relying on salt. Swap processed foods for wholesome foods like fresh fruits, nuts, or unsalted popcorn. Taste before you add salt. SA has made strides in addressing this issue; in 2013, it became the first African nation to pass legislation regulating sodium levels in processed foods. Setting limits for bread, margarine, and other staples. While this legislation has helped reduce overall sodium consumption, the fight isn't over. Many South Africans still exceed the recommended daily intake, highlighting the need for continued public awareness and individual responsibility.
The Citizen
12-05-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Know Your Blood Pressure This May Measurement Month
Know Your Blood Pressure This May Measurement Month This May Measurement Month, health experts are sounding the alarm on hypertension (HTN), a condition that affects billions worldwide yet remains dangerously underdiagnosed and undertreated. Alarmingly, a recent study found that 74% of patients are unaware that they are at risk of hypertension or are unaware of their hypertension status. World Hypertension Day is observed on May 17. ALSO READ: Ekurhuleni encourages public to use suggestion boxes at health facilities HTN is the most significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease (in SA. With cardiovascular disease ranking among the top 10 causes of death worldwide, detecting and controlling blood pressure has never been more critical. Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to serious health complications, significantly increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and heart failure. It's also linked to a higher likelihood of developing dementia and can drastically reduce overall quality of life. These consequences contribute to increased mortality and morbidity, underscoring the importance of early detection, treatment and management of high blood pressure. May Measurement Month A public health campaign, Because I Say So is part of a global blood pressure screening initiative, May Measurement Month. Now in its ninth year, this collaborative campaign was initiated in response to the hypertension health crisis. It is led by the International Society of Hypertension, in collaboration with the Southern African Hypertension Society and Servier, among other scientific societies. It is a public call for everyone to get their blood pressure (BP) checked. This non-invasive test takes five minutes, is free during May Measurement Month, and can help save lives. Professor Erika Jones, the president of the Southern African Hypertension Society, said, 'Hypertension is often called the 'silent killer' because it typically has no symptoms until significant damage has occurred. The scale of the problem The statistics, as recorded in 2019, paint a concerning picture: • 4.06 billion adults were affected by high systolic blood pressure; • 1.3 billion adults (30-79 years) were affected by hypertension; • 10.8 million deaths were associated with raised blood pressure; • Approximately 60% of adults develop hypertension by 60 years of age; • Up to 90% of adults living to 80 are likely to develop hypertension; • Hypertension causes over 50% of heart disease, stroke and heart failure cases. SA faces an exceptionally high burden, with the South African Demographic and Health Survey (SADHS) reporting a hypertension prevalence of 46.0% in females and 44.0% in males above 18 years of age. Even more concerning, over 80% of people living with hypertension have uncontrolled blood pressure. This prevalence significantly exceeds the global average of 31.1%. ALSO READ: Ekurhuleni encourages public to use suggestion boxes at health facilities The treatment gap A 'treatment cascade' exists for patients with hypertension. A report by the World Heart Federation (WHF), Roadmap for Hypertension, starts with those with high blood pressure, although many don't even know their status. Of those diagnosed, only a portion receive treatment, and fewer still achieve blood pressure control. Finally, patient adherence remains the biggest challenge. Effective prevention and detection of hypertension require a multi-faceted approach. This includes robust screening policies that include initial blood pressure screenings from the age of 18 and regular follow-ups and opportunistic screenings in various settings like workplaces, schools and community spaces. A WHF member survey across 46 countries showed 65% of the polled healthcare respondents reporting that their patients do not adhere to treatment plans, showing that even once the obstacles of detection and diagnosis are overcome, patients still struggle with maintaining their prescribed regimens. ALSO READ: Media called to action in supporting health services across Ekurhuleni Obstacles to prevention Despite knowing how to prevent and treat high blood pressure, many barriers stand in the way of success. These challenges affect patients and healthcare systems alike. For those diagnosed with hypertension, treatment brings its challenges – medication can be expensive, many people struggle to stay motivated for a condition with no obvious symptoms, there are cultural attitudes that sometimes discourage medical intervention, and daily pill routines can be complicated to maintain. ALSO READ: Teenage pregnancy campaign clarified – Gauteng Health The healthcare systems face obstacles, too, including limited resources for widespread blood pressure screening; equipment shortages and inaccurate measurements; healthcare workers might have poor awareness or a misunderstanding of guidelines; and follow-up systems to monitor patient progress are often inadequate. With proper awareness of these challenges, patients and healthcare providers can work together to find practical solutions that make hypertension prevention and treatment more accessible for everyone. 'For more than 50 years, Servier has been committed to fighting high blood pressure – the 'silent killer' – that affects millions without warning. 'As non-communicable diseases like hypertension continue to rise, it solidifies the importance of collaborative public information campaigns like Because I Say So and May Measurement Month. 'We compel South Africans to take action and check their blood pressure. It has never been more crucial for public health,' says Virosha Deonarain, the medical manager at Servier. South Africans should go to their local pharmacies, clinics, or doctors to get tested for free in May. Find a participating pharmacy in your area and get the test today: At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
CBC
27-02-2025
- Politics
- CBC
Northern Policy Institute surveying northern Ontarians about immigration, personal wellbeing
The Northern Policy Institute (NPI) is urging residents of northern Ontario to fill in a series of surveys on its website, which include questions about personal wellbeing and attitudes toward immigration. People in Sudbury, Timmins, North Bay, Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay might also receive phone calls from pollster Environics this spring asking them more about immigration. It's part of the policy institute's annual Measurement Month, which tracks attitudes and experiences of people in the region so that the institute can use the data to evaluate programs, said Charles Cirtwill, the institute's CEO. "For example, when [Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada] launched … the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot, one of the things they wanted to do was see a positive uptick in the attitudes toward immigrants," Cirtwill explained. "And so by having these surveys going on at the same time, we're able to kind of say whether or not that attitude tracked with the increased investment and the increased awareness of immigration." The institute launched Measurement Month in 2021 because the north is so large, and its population is so dispersed that data gathered by Statistics Canada frequently has too many gaps in it to be useful, Cirtwill explained. While measurement month typically occurs in February, this year's got off to a late start – the surveys were posted Feb. 21 – and will extend into March. The telephone poll will occur in May. The annual initiative includes a survey of employers' feelings about the economy and their plans to hire new staff. It includes surveys for the general public about personal wellbeing and attitudes toward immigration. It also includes surveys about the experiences of newcomers and the experiences of racial minorities when it comes to racism. This will be the third time Environics has polled people in the north about their attitudes toward immigration since Measurement Month began in 2021, Cirtwill said. The previous two surveys carried out in 2021 and 2023 show a slight decrease in positive regard for immigration. In 2021, 82 per cent of northern Ontarians said immigration had a positive effect on their community. That had dropped to 77 per cent in 2023. The number of people who believed that there was too much immigration to Canada rose from 26 to 30 per cent during the same time frame. The number of people who believed that immigrants take jobs from other Canadians dropped from 22 to 19 per cent. Some of the most significant drops in positive regard for immigration happened in Sudbury, where the number of people who felt that immigration was good for Canada fell from 87 to 77 per cent. On the other hand, Thunder Bay bucked the regional trend by posting increased positive regard for immigration across nearly every metric.
