Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition where the force of the blood pushing against your artery walls is consistently too high. It often develops over time and usually shows no obvious symptoms – earning it the nickname “the silent killer.” If left unmanaged, hypertension can lead to serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.

What does blood pressure mean?
Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and recorded with two numbers:

• Systolic pressure (top number): The pressure when your heart beats
• Diastolic pressure (bottom number): The pressure when your heart rests between beats

The more blood your heart pumps and the narrower your arteries, the higher your blood pressure will be.

Who is at risk?
Your risk increases if you:

• Have a family history of high blood pressure
• Are overweight or obese
• Live an inactive lifestyle
• Smoke or drink alcohol excessively
• Eat a diet high in sodium and low in potassium
• Have underlying health conditions like diabetes or kidney disease
• Experience chronic stress

Because symptoms can go unnoticed, regular screening is essential – even if you feel perfectly healthy.

Take charge with the Be Better benefit
Take a proactive approach to your health with our Be Better benefit, which includes:

• A wellness screening, including a blood pressure check
• An online wellness questionnaire to assess your overall health and lifestyle
• Guidance from healthcare professionals if your results indicate any concerns

This benefit helps detect potential health risks early, giving you the opportunity to manage them effectively and lead a healthier life.

For a quick overview on the importance of blood pressure screenings, warning signs, and preventative steps, see our hypertension infographic.