High Blood Pressure: Raising Awareness in May

May 02, 2025

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May is National High Blood Pressure Awareness Month, a crucial time to focus on a condition that affects nearly half of all adults in the United States. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a serious health concern that increases the risk of heart attacks, heart failure, stroke, and kidney failure. It's essential to understand the facts about high blood pressure and take proactive steps to manage it.

Understanding High Blood Pressure

Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. When this force is consistently too high, it's called high blood pressure. According to the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, high blood pressure is defined as 130/80 mmHg or higher. Of those aware of their high blood pressure, only one in four adults has it under control.

Improving Heart Health in Cowley County

Kansas Health Matters shows that 72 percent of the Medicare population in Cowley County has been diagnosed with hypertension.

“High blood pressure is so common in our patients and a known risk factor for heart attacks, congestive heart failure, kidney failure, and strokes,” says Dr. Ryan Beard, MD, a cardiologist at William Newton Hospital.

In March, the hospital began offering advanced treatment options for high blood pressure in the cardiac catheterization lab. This minimally invasive, one-time procedure, known as renal denervation, is clinically proven to help reduce high blood pressure.

“Using our new Symplicity Spyral™ system, we can better treat our patients with blood pressure issues that are difficult to manage with traditional blood pressure medications,” explains Beard.

Launching in May, the Winfield Public Library will offer free blood pressure self-checks through the American Heart Association's "Libraries with Heart" grant. To help combat high blood pressure, the library is working with the hospital to feature a high blood pressure education station. Outreach events are planned for June 26 and July 24.

Free blood pressure checks will also be offered at the William Newton Hospital booth at the Cowley County Health and Safety Fair on Saturday, May 17, at the fairgrounds.

Taking Control of Your Blood Pressure

While medical interventions are crucial, lifestyle changes play a significant role in managing high blood pressure. The American Heart Association emphasizes the importance of:

• Healthy Diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products
• Regular Exercise: Aiming for 90-150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week
• Weight Management: Losing even a small amount of weight can help lower blood pressure
• Limiting Alcohol: Moderate alcohol intake is recommended (up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men)
• Reducing Sodium Intake: Lowering salt intake can significantly impact blood pressure levels

Even small reductions in blood pressure can have a big impact on reducing the risk of cardiovascular events.
High blood pressure is a widespread condition, but with awareness, prevention, and proper management, its impact can be minimized. Local healthcare providers and support services are available to help the community achieve better cardiovascular health. This May, take control of your health by getting your blood pressure checked and making heart-healthy choices.