Practice Resources: Hypertension Resources

World Hypertension Day is May 17^th. In 2009 the 2 weeks following (May 18-31) will also be dedicated to raising public awareness of the serious consequences of suboptimal blood pressure control. In an effort to create further awareness and education about this increasing epidemic, pharmacists have an integral role in health promotion, disease prevention and chronic disease management.

Hypertension is a leading risk factor for death and disability in Canada. One in five adult Canadians has high-normal blood pressure (130-139/85-89mmHg). Canadians who are overweight AND have high-normal blood pressure are at an increased risk of developing hypertension: 40% will develop hypertension within 2 years and 60% within 4 years. Therefore, annual monitoring and appropriate lifestyle modifications are recommended for those with high-normal blood pressure¹. People who participate in blood pressure monitoring programs are more likely to assume greater ownership and responsibility for their own health.

Hypertension Guidelines

• 2009 Canadian Hypertension Education Program (CHEP) Guidelines
• Hypertension Supplement: Canadian Pharmacists Journal (CPJ). 2006 May-June, 39 (1).
• 5 step approach to managing hypertension: Canadian Pharmacists Journal (CPJ), 2006 May-June, 39 (1).

Resource Tools

• 3 Minute Hypertension Action Tools and Instructions
• Measuring Blood Pressure the Right Way poster (français)
• Public education DVD, The Silent Killer available for download from Blood Pressure Canada
• This DVD is based on the CHEP professional recommendations to inform Canadians about hypertension, the risks associated with it, its management, treatment and control.

Resources

References

1. 2009 Canadian Hypertension Education Program Recommendations for the Management of Hypertension. Available from http://hypertension.ca/chep/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/2009-chep-recommendations_d3.pdf (accessed April 23, 2009)