2010 Hong Kong Reference Framework for Hypertension Care for ...

Chapter 6.Component 1: Prevention Of HypertensionAdoption Of A Healthy LifestyleThere are two complementary approaches to reducing the incidence ofhypertension in the population:●●The ‘population approach’, the aim of this approach is to reduce the averagelevel of risk for developing hypertension across the entire population. Theinterventions required include:»»increasing physical activity levels,»»improving diet and nutrition,»»preventing excess dietary salt intake, and»»preventing and reducing overweight and obesity.●●The ‘individual-based/high-risk approach’, which aims to identify those atincreased risk of developing hypertension, offer them appropriate advice onhow to reduce the risk, and support them to lose weight and increase theirphysical activity levels. People with multiple risk factors for developinghypertension should also be given advice and support opportunistically tominimise their risk.RecommendationsAdvise individuals at increased risk of developing hypertensionand patients with hypertension to maintain optimal body weight,restrict dietary salt intake, abstain from smoking and practisehealthy lifestyles.ASupporting evidence●●Individuals with above-optimal blood pressure, including stage 1hypertension (refer to Table 1), can make multiple lifestylechanges such as weight loss, sodium reduction, increasedphysical activity and dietary changes, to help lower their bloodpressure and reduce cardiovascular risk 4 .1+5 HK Reference Framework for Hypertension Care for Adults in Primary Care Settings