Canadian Hypertension Education Program (CHEP)
Overview
CHEP is an organization (Est. 1999) aimed at educating health care professionals on the latest hypertension knowledge, information and recommendations. CHEP is comprised of volunteer members from various backgrounds with a common passion for hypertension related issues. Members include scientists, researchers, government officials, health care providers and members from affiliate organizations.
Hypertension or high blood pressure is defined as a condition present when blood flows through the blood vessels with a force greater than normal. This force is measured using a sphygmomanometer (mmHg). Generally mercury devices are used, but electronic devices are also available and encouraged for home or office blood pressure measurements. Always ensure your blood pressure is measured with an approved device. Approved devices can be found here.
About Us
- For more information, click here www.hypertension.ca/chep/about/mission-objectives
or visit www.hypertension.ca/chep
Facts About Hypertension
| Hypertension is generally defined as 140 mm Hg(systolic blood pressure)/ 90 mmHg(diastolic blood pressure). NOTE: Certain conditions cause hypertension at lower readings (< 140/90 mmHg). Check with your health care provider to ensure what is a normal or normotensive level for you. |
| Those who live to the average male/female lifespan have greater than 90% chance of becoming hypertensive at some point during their lives. |
| Hypertension was identified as the leading global risk for cardiovascular disease as stated in 2002 by the World Health Organization. That same report stated that 1/6 adults worldwide are hypertensive (approximately 1 billion people). |
| More than 5.7 million Canadians are diagnosed with hypertension while over 500,000 Albertans have high blood pressure. |
| Eating a low sodium diet can reduce blood pressure. For some, it can be as effective as taking a blood pressure medication. |
| Four million prescriptions for antihypertensives are written each month in Canada. |
| Hypertension can be successfully controlled and maintained. |
