Health and Community Services
May 15, 2015

Supporting the Health of Families and Communities

World Hypertension Day Recognized in Newfoundland and Labrador

The Provincial Government is recognizing Sunday, May 17, as World Hypertension Day in Newfoundland and Labrador. This year�s theme is Know Your Numbers, which promotes the benefits of knowing blood pressure levels and acting accordingly.

�World Hypertension Day presents an opportunity to raise awareness of the tremendously positive influence we can have on our own personal health and well-being through simple diet and lifestyle choices. Hypertension can be caused by a variety of factors including high sodium intake, smoking, lack of exercise, stress and others, and it is important that we monitor our blood pressure levels with regular checks to avoid more serious health issues.�
- The Honourable Steve Kent, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Community Services

Symptoms of hypertension typically do not present themselves initially; however, over time increased blood pressure can lead to a number of health problems, from hypertensive heart disease and coronary artery disease to stroke and chronic kidney disease.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador supports a variety of healthy eating programs and promotes physical activity to support wellness. In addition to providing a range of mental health supports, and coverage for smoking cessation medications for individuals with low incomes, the Provincial Government also supports Improving Health: My Way�the Provincial Chronic Disease Self-Management Program.

To support the health and wellness of all residents, Budget 2015 provides:

• $5.9 million for community-based organizations and agencies, which are advocates for health and wellness and deliver programs and services in communities;
• $2.2 million for initiatives, programs and projects focused on healthy living, recreation and wellness at the community level; and
• $500,000 to develop and implement a new physical activity program for schools.

�Promoting and supporting healthy behaviours of individuals and families in their homes, schools, workplaces, and communities is essential for overall health and well-being. Achieving optimal wellness for all people in our province takes the collective effort and sustained action of many different partners � including community organizations and municipalities to schools and regional health authorities. All these groups must work together to build healthy public policy, create supportive environments, and strengthen community action.�
-The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Seniors, Wellness and Social Development

Residents who have questions about high blood pressure are encouraged to call the provincial HealthLine at 1-888-709-2929 to learn more about effective health self-management and to speak to an experienced registered nurse. More information can also be found on the Heart and Stroke Foundation�s website at www.heartandstroke.ca .

QUICK FACTS

• The Provincial Government is recognizing Sunday, May 17, as World Hypertension Day in Newfoundland and Labrador.
• Hypertension can be caused by a variety of factors including high sodium intake, smoking, lack of exercise, stress and others.
• The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador supports a variety of healthy eating programs and promotes physical activity to support the overall wellness of all residents.
• Budget 2015 provides $5.9 million for community-based organizations and agencies; $2.2 million for initiatives, programs and projects focused on healthy living, recreation and wellness at the community level; and, $500,000 to develop and implement a new physical activity program for schools.
• For more information about Hypertension residents can call the provincial HealthLine at 1-888-709-2929 or visit the Heart and Stroke Foundation�s website at www.heartandstroke.ca .

- 30 -

Media contacts:

John Tompkins Director of Communications Department of Health and Community Services 709-729-1377, 728-7762 jtompkins@gov.nl.ca

Heather May Director of Communications Department of Seniors, Wellness and Social Development 709-729-0928, 697-5061 heathermay@gov.nl.ca

2015 05 15                              3:30 p.m.