Expectant mothers encouraged to check on their hypertension this month
With World Hypertension Day on May 17, expecting mothers are encouraged to monitor their stress as it could pose health complications.
Local obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Rogers Mmabatswa is launching an awareness campaign aimed at educating residents about the dangers of high blood pressure and the importance of early detection and care.
'Routine monitoring of blood pressure during pregnancy is crucial. Early detection and proper management can significantly reduce the risk of both mother and baby,' Dr Mmabatswa said.
May is often recognised as Hypertension Awareness Month to raise awareness about the risks and prevention of high blood pressure.
In South Africa, there's also Salt Awareness Week from May 15-21, emphasising the link between salt intake and hypertension.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects 10% of pregnancies worldwide and is a leading cause of maternal and neonatal complications, including preeclampsia, preterm birth and low birth weight.
Ways to combat hypertension include:
– Reduced caffeine intake
– Limit alcohol
– Less salt
– Less processed foods
– More exercise
– Enough hours of sleep
– Quit smoking
– Lose weight
Expectant mothers and their families are encouraged to consult with their healthcare providers about hypertension screening.
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord's websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok.
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
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