Trends in blood pressure changes and hypertension prevalence in Australian adults before and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Description: A peer-reviewed study analysing data from publicly available SiSU Health Stations across Australia indicated a strong trend toward higher BP during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the population level, BP increments have been shown to markedly increase cardiovascular disease risk. Anti-pandemic measures need to be carefully evaluated in terms of secondary public health effects and health support systems extended to effectively target cardiovascular risk. Nolde JM, Streets F, Meyer D, et al. Journal of Clinical Hypertension 2024 26::145–154. https://doi.org/10.1111/jch.1476
Key Data
- XXX,XXX Blood pressure checks analysed
Conclusions
An important learning from this analysis points to the need of national BP surveillance systems to monitor BP and other CV risk factors on a population level to enable early intervention where required. Individuals should regularly participate in BP screenings and should also do so during public healthcare emergencies. Furthermore, testing of the utility of community-based health stations to facilitate wider awareness of the important role of BP for cardiovascular health and improving health literacy on an individual level will be required. Further research, especially in the form of population representative data and other risk factors, is urgently required to gain a better understanding of the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated countermeasures on cardiovascular public health. Similar trends were also seen for BMI.
Research Partners
References:
1. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We recognise their continuing connection to land, sea and community and we pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. SiSU Health is dedicated to supporting better health and health outcomes for indigenous peoples across Australia. As of November 2024, we are proud to have provided more than 64,000 free health checks to more than 40,000 individuals of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage across Australia.
DISCLAIMER: The use of SiSU Health Products is not intended to replace medical advice from a qualified physician or healthcare professional. Always check with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health or lifestyle.
Company
L8, 637 Flinders Street, Docklands, 3008
Australia
(03) 9818 3998