HEALTH LIBRARY
Understanding Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
What is Hypertension?
Hypertension is a condition where the pressure of blood flowing through your arteries is consistently too high. Think of your blood vessels as flexible pipes — when the pressure is too strong for too long, the walls can weaken or get damaged, leading to serious health problems.
Blood Pressure Readings
Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
Elevated: 120–129/<80 mmHg
Hypertension (Stage 1): 130–139/80–89 mmHg
Hypertension (Stage 2): 140+/90+ mmHg
Hypertensive Crisis: 180+/120+ mmHg — medical emergency
Why It’s Dangerous
Hypertension is called a “silent killer” because it often shows no symptoms until damage is severe. Uncontrolled high blood pressure increases the risk of:
Stroke 🧠
Heart attack ❤️
Kidney disease 🩺
Vision problems 👁️
Aneurysms (bulging of blood vessels)
Causes & Risk Factors
Lifestyle: High salt diet, lack of exercise, smoking, excessive alcohol.
Medical: Diabetes, obesity, kidney disease.
Other: Age (especially over 40), family history, stress.
Signs & Symptoms (When They Appear)
Most people have no symptoms, but in severe cases you might notice:
Severe headaches
Blurred vision
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Nosebleeds
Prevention & Management
Check Your Blood Pressure Regularly – at least once every few months, more often if at risk.
Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet – plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains; reduce salt and processed foods.
Exercise Regularly – at least 30 mins of moderate activity 5 days a week.
Limit Alcohol & Avoid Smoking.
Maintain a Healthy Weight.
Manage Stress – meditation, deep breathing, or hobbies.
Follow Doctor’s Advice – if prescribed medication, take it consistently.
💡 Key Takeaway:
Hypertension doesn’t shout — it whispers quietly while causing damage. The best protection is awareness, regular checks, and a healthy lifestyle.
Cancer Demystified – Understanding the Basics
1. What is Cancer?
Cancer is a disease where certain body cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body.
Normally, cells grow, divide, and die in an orderly way.
In cancer, cells keep growing when they shouldn’t, forming a tumor (lump) or affecting blood and immune cells (like in leukemia).
2. Common Types of Cancer
Carcinomas: Start in skin or organ linings (e.g., breast, lung, colon).
Sarcomas: Begin in bones or connective tissues.
Leukemias: Cancers of the blood and bone marrow.
Lymphomas: Cancers of the immune system.
3. Causes & Risk Factors
Genetics: Family history can increase risk.
Lifestyle: Smoking, poor diet, alcohol, lack of exercise.
Environmental exposure: Pollution, radiation, harmful chemicals.
Infections: Some viruses (HPV, Hepatitis B/C) can trigger cancer.
Age: Risk increases with age.
4. Early Warning Signs
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent fatigue
Unusual lumps or swelling
Changes in skin (new moles, wounds that don’t heal)
Persistent cough or hoarseness
Changes in bowel or bladder habits
Unexplained bleeding
5. Prevention Tips
Eat a balanced diet (more fruits, vegetables, whole grains).
Stay physically active.
Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol.
Protect skin from excessive sun exposure.
Get vaccinated (HPV, Hepatitis B).
Go for regular health screenings (mammograms, Pap smears, colonoscopies).
6. Why Early Detection Matters
Many cancers can be treated successfully if found early.
Screening tests and self-examinations can save lives.
The stage at diagnosis often determines survival rates
Knowledge is power: Understanding cancer helps reduce fear and encourages early action.
Take charge of your health — schedule your next check-up today.
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