As part of this year’s American Heart Month in February, the state Department of Health encourages everyone to have their blood pressure checked regularly to reduce their risk for heart attack, stroke and other complications.
Simple information about blood pressure is now available at CheckYourPressureHI.com.
“February is American Heart Month and a perfect time for all of us to take important steps to reduce risk factors associated with heart disease,” said Health Director Dr. Virginia Pressler. “The good news is heart disease can be prevented by taking simple steps such as checking your blood pressure regularly.
“If you don’t have an at-home blood pressure monitor, visit your local fire station to have it checked for free.”
According to the DOH Chronic Disease Prevention &Health Promotion Division, 1 in 3 adults in Hawaii has been diagnosed with high blood pressure (also known as HBP or hypertension). A blood pressure reading of 140/90 or more is considered high. Those who already have high blood pressure or other chronic diseases should check their blood pressure at least once a week.
Those who don’t have a doctor or can’t afford one are encouraged to visit the nearest community health center for assistance. For a list of community health centers in Hawaii, visit www.hawaiipca.net/health-centers-in-hawaii.