Understanding high blood pressure

Saman Khalesi

Understanding the lifestyle and needs of people with high blood pressure in order to improve the outlook for sufferers is the focus of Griffith University research.

PhD candidate Saman Khalesi from the Griffith Health Institute is seeking adults with high blood pressure to evaluate their dietary habits, general health, and blood pressure management skills.

High blood pressure (or hypertension) can lead to serious health problems such as stroke, heart attack, heart failure and kidney disease. In 2012, almost one in three Australian adults had high blood pressure, which around two third of those have not controlled or managed their condition.

Still much confusion

“There is still much confusion out there regarding the skills and nutritional needs to manage high blood pressure. People with high blood pressure still may not eat healthy food for their condition,” says Mr Khalesi. “People are often confused about the dietary choices they make in relation to excess salt (sodium) and fat intake and the quantity of the required minerals such as potassium, and calcium. For example, Australians consume more than twice the amount of salt that is recommended to prevent heart disease.

“With this survey, we believe the findings may help understand the dietary habits and lifestyle, and hypertension management skills of Australian adults with high blood pressure. Therefore, we may be able to assist in the development of future interventions to improve blood pressure and prevent hypertension.”

The survey will take about 20 to 25 minutes to complete, with participants able to go into a draw to win one of four $50 Coles and Myer gift cards.

If you have high blood pressure or not sure about your blood pressure readings and interested in the study please contact Mr Khalesi on 0432 402710 or email [email protected]

You can complete the survey in paper format or online. The online version of the survey is available at: https://prodsurvey.rcs.griffith.edu.au/dietforbloodpressure.