Press Release

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National High Blood Pressure Education Month

Fifty million Americans have high blood pressure, and less than 30 percent are controlling their condition. Lowering blood pressure, especially in older people, dramatically reduces strokes, coronary events, heart failure, progression of renal disease, and all-cause mortality. The Union County Health Department joins the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute in promoting High Blood Pressure Education Month.

Lifestyle modification can be an effective part of a blood pressure –lowering program. Eating more fruits and vegetables, whole grain breads and cereals, and lowfat dairy products has been shown to be effective in lowering blood pressure. Maintaining a healthy weight and being active everyday are also necessary steps in blood pressure control. It is also important to have your blood pressure checked often.

Preventing high blood pressure is the key to a healthy heart and body. Use fewer foods that are high in salt and sodium. Eliminate or cut back on alcohol by consuming only one to two drinks per day. Work towards a healthy weight by trying not to gain extra weight and losing weight slowly if you are currently overweight.

The Union County Health Department offers free blood pressure screenings and a licensed dietitian is available for consultation. Free blood pressure checks are held weekdays from 8-9 am at the Health Department office at 621 S. Plum Street in Marysville, 1st Friday of the month from 2-3 pm at K-Mart in Marysville, 1st Thursday of the month from 11:30-12:30 in Richwood at 21 North Franklin Street, 1st Wednesday of the month in Plain City from 11 am- noon at the Pharmacy & Health Care Center. For more information on high blood pressure or free screenings, please contact the Union County Health Department at (937) 642-0801 or 1-888-333-9461 for non local calls.