Health

Thousands Screened for High Blood Pressure

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The County and its partners asked local residents to “Love” their heart on Valentine’s Day by getting their blood pressure screened. Thousands did.

A total of 2,016 people got their blood pressure checked at more than 60 sites throughout the region, including fire stations and County facilities. The free blood pressure screenings, offered in partnership with Anthem, Kaiser Permanente, US Health Works and members of the local firefighting community were part of the County’s Live Well, San Diego! initiative, which strives to improve the health and wellbeing of area residents.

 “Getting a blood pressure screening is the first step to being heart healthy,” said Nick Macchione, director of the County Health and Human Services Agency. “It is one of the best ways residents can take charge of their health and a way to maintain or improve heart health.”

Residents with above normal blood pressures were asked to have their blood pressure checked again at their doctor’s offices or community clinic.

Participants were also provided with information on how to be heart healthy, including:

  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Being physically active
  • Not smoking
  • Limiting alcohol use

High blood pressure can lead to heart disease, stroke or other illnesses. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, killing one person every minute. In San Diego County, it has dropped to second place, killing an average of 13 people every day.

Obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and a family history of heart disease can put an individual at greater risk.

This is the second year the County and its partners have offered free blood pressure screenings. Last year, more than 1,300 people had their blood pressure checked on Valentine’s Day.

 

José A. Álvarez is a communications specialist with the County of San Diego Communications Office. Contact