What's new for the latest CHEP recommendations?

Each year, CHEP focuses on certain key messages in their recommendations. These key messages are chosen based on areas that have new scientific evidence or areas that can have a large impact on the health of Canadians. This year's CHEP recommendations have a few key messages for people with high blood pressure.

Reach your targets

This year's CHEP guidelines emphasize how important it is to reach your blood pressure targets. For most people, this means reaching a blood pressure of less than 140/90 mm Hg. For people with diabetes, the targets are lower: less than 130/80 mm Hg. For people age 80 and older, the targets are less than 150/90 mmHg. To reach these targets, you may need a combination of medications and healthy lifestyle changes (see below). It's very important to follow your treatment plan and use your medication as recommended by your doctor. Reaching your targets can help you reduce your risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Measure your blood pressure at home as recommended by your doctor

Home blood pressure measurement can help you see how your treatment is going and motivate you to stick with your medication and healthy lifestyle changes. Ask your doctor which blood pressure monitor is best for you and how to use it properly. An average blood pressure of 135/85 or higher on home blood pressure measurements is considered high. If you have high readings, consult your doctor.

Live a healthy lifestyle

CHEP recommends that adults start making healthy lifestyle changes to reduce their blood pressure and their risk of heart disease. Healthy lifestyle changes include:

  • exercising (e.g., walking) for 30 to 60 minutes 4 to 7 days a week
  • eating a healthy diet high in fresh fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products; and low in salt and saturated fats
  • being smoke free
  • reducing alcohol consumption to not more than 2 drinks per day to a maximum of 10 drinks per week for women, and not more than 3 drinks per day to a maximum of 15 drinks per week for men
  • maintaining a healthy weight
  • managing stress

To learn more about lifestyle changes, see the "What's not new, but still really important in the CHEP recommendations?" section of this health feature, speak to your doctor, or visit the High Blood Pressure Channel.

 

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