| For immediate release -- |
Media Advisory |
Attention science/health/research/assignment editors
OTTAWA (May 11, 2006) - To underscore the importance of understanding and managing hypertension (high blood pressure), the number one risk factor for stroke and a major risk factor for heart disease and kidney disease,
The Honourable Wilbert Keon
will take part in a blood pressure clinic as part of World Hypertension Day activities.
| What: | World Hypertension Day launch |
| When: |
Thursday, May 11, 2006 11:15 a.m. Keynote address by Senator Wilbert J. Keon Photo op 11:30 a.m.: Special guests including Senator Wilbert J. Keon will have their blood pressure measured |
| Where: | Room 214, Wellington Building |
"High blood pressure is called the silent killer because it has no symptoms," says Dr. Arun Chockalingam, secretary general of the World Hypertension League and professor and director of Global Health at Simon Fraser University.
"Forty five per cent of the estimated four million Canadians with hypertension are not diagnosed. Canadians need to get tested. And those with high blood pressure should know their blood pressure goal - and work towards reaching that target."
High blood pressure can be prevented and controlled through lifestyle measures including following a low salt and high potassium diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy body weight, being smoke-free, and having no more than two alcoholic drinks per day. If hypertension can not be controlled through lifestyle measures, one may require drug therapy.
Members of Parliament, senators, staff, and members of the press gallery are invited to a free blood pressure clinic on May 11 from 11:50 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in room 209 of the West Block.
World Hypertension Day is Saturday, May 13.
The World Hypertension League is committed to raising awareness of hypertension worldwide through World Hypertension Day. In Canada, major professional societies, government, non-government agencies, and the private sector, including pharmaceutical and device manufacturers - who have a stake in and responsibility for blood pressure control - are participating.
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For more information, please contact:
Marie-France Poirier
CIHR Media Specialist
Office: (613) 941-4563
Mobile: (613) 447-4794
E-mail: mediarelations@cihr-irsc.gc.ca
