Experts are warning that a “considerable” number of 16 to 24-year-olds in England – around 170,000 – unknowingly have risky high blood pressure. This condition, although often asymptomatic, puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels and is responsible for about half of heart attacks and strokes in the UK. High blood pressure can develop at any age, so regular checks are recommended for all adults, and preventative measures should be taken to avoid long-term harm. The data comes from the Health Survey for England, which conducted at-home blood pressure measurements on 20,000 people, including 1,500 young people, taken by a nurse on different occasions to obtain an average reading. Of those found to have high blood pressure, 26% of women and 66% of men aged 16-24 were undiagnosed. Experts recommend taking control of your health by checking your blood pressure regularly and making lifestyle changes such as reducing salt, eating more fruit and vegetables, and taking more exercise. These changes can prevent high blood pressure and related health issues such as strokes, heart disease, and chronic kidney disease.
