Not only is it World Hypertension Day (WHD) on 17 May, it’s also May Measurement Month (MMM) – two campaigns that aim to highlight the issue of high blood pressure. Hypertension is a problem that affects millions of South Africans – and according to MMM, it’s the main contributing risk factor for global death, “causing strokes, heart attacks and other cardiovascular complications.”

So, what steps can you take in aid of these health initiatives and to help you maintain a healthy blood pressure?

1. Know your numbers. If you haven’t had your blood pressure checked in a while, visit a clinic near you to get it tested – and encourage your friends and family to get theirs tested, too.

2.  Get moving. Along with its many other health benefits, exercise is also good for your blood pressure. According to Mayo Clinic, “Regular physical activity — such as 150 minutes a week, or about 30 minutes most days of the week — can lower your blood pressure by about 5 to 8 mm Hg if you have high blood pressure.”

Remember that it’s a good idea to chat to your doctor before taking up any new physical activity.

3. Manage your stress levels. It should come as no surprise that high stress levels can cause your blood pressure to rise, so try to engage in activities and habits that help you feel calm and relaxed. Do some gentle yoga or breathing exercises, go for a walk, listen to some calming music or spend time with friends and family.

4. Lose some weight. If you’re carrying a bit of excess weight and you have high blood pressure, losing the extra kilograms can help. In fact, Mayo Clinic states that, “Weight loss is one of the most effective lifestyle changes for controlling blood pressure.”