HYPERTENSION is often called the "silent killer" because it is deadly, and usually shows no symptoms in the early stages. It is rampant in SA, as it is in other parts of the world.Specialists say that many people are walking around not knowing they have high blood pressure.Hypertension is the term given for consistently high blood pressure readings of greater than 140/90mm/Hg (a normal reading is 120/80mm/Hg).Statistics from a national survey show that only 39% of all hypertensive patients in SA report that they have the condition; only 29% of those diagnosed are treated; only 14% are well controlled.Specialists say the cause of high blood pressure is an interaction of genetic and environmental factors, that include poor diet, inactivity and toxins. You are exposed to these factors almost every day, if not many times a day.You can reduce your risk by limiting exposure to the environmental risk factors, or getting the correct diagnosis and treatment.Hypertension is easily treated whe...
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