April 02, 2013

Director of Health Dr Constance Chan has urged the public to maintain a healthy lifestyle and have regular blood pressure checks as the prevalence of hypertension is growing.
 
Speaking at a press conference today on World Health Day 2013, Dr Chan said the percentage of Hong Kong people with hypertension grew to 11% in 2011-12, from 9.3% in 2008.
 
She said adults should have their blood pressure checked every two years.
 
“The rising trend for hypertension is attributed to an aging population, and high alert or awareness by the public and medical professionals in their diagnosis. Like many Asian countries, we are now very well off but our diets are not necessarily more healthy.”
 
Dr Chan said hypertension is a “silent killer”, as sufferers may have no symptoms. It can lead to heart attacks, strokes and kidney malfunction.
 
The Department of Health will post information about the illness on its website. It will also set up an information hotline (2830 1111).
 
Centre for Food Safety Consultant (Community Medicine) (Risk Assessment & Communication) Dr Ho Yuk-yin said reducing salt intake is one of the most effective ways of preventing hypertension.
 
“We will raise the awareness of the general public to the importance of reducing dietary intake of salt. On the other hand, we are working with members of the trade so they are aware of the importance of reducing the salt content of food."