High blood pressure or hypertension is one of the most common causes of cardiovascular diseases, but many people do not realise that it is the leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke, so Sagicor Life Inc. is doing its part to ensure that its staff and customers are living a healthier life by promoting and educating on hypertension.
Last Friday, May 17, to mark World Hypertension Day, Sagicor’s staff and customers who visited the company’s Collymore Rock location were invited to visit the Mobile Medical Unit to have free blood pressure checks and to learn how to manage their blood pressure. Everyone who attended was also given a takeaway booklet with important hypertension facts as well as tips on how to reduce high blood pressure.
Executive Vice President and General Manager for Barbados Operations, Edward Clarke said: “While we may offer health plans at Sagicor Life Inc. that complements public health coverage and employee benefits to provide extra protection against illness or special needs, it is also important to us that both our staff and our customers are well informed to protect themselves.”
According to the Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO), more than one third of Barbadians between the age of 25 and 70 years suffer from hypertension. The condition is usually brought on by not getting enough exercise and eating an unhealthy diet. It can go unnoticed for a significant period and if not diagnosed in time, high blood pressure can increase the risk of serious health problems including a stroke or a heart attack. (PR)
