More than one in three adults in SA live with hypertension but more than 50% of patients don’t even know they have it.¹ 

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a prevalent condition worldwide, affecting millions of individuals. However, despite its widespread occurrence, hypertension is often misunderstood, leading to various misconceptions that can impact both diagnosis and management. Addressing these misconceptions is essential for promoting better understanding and improving patient outcomes. 

MISCONCEPTION: I have no symptoms, therefore I don’t need to worry  

FACT: Hypertension is often asymptomatic, earning it the moniker of the "silent killer." Statistics from SA reveal that more than one-third of adults live with hypertension, with over half unaware of their condition. This underscores the importance of routine check-ups for early detection and intervention.¹ 

MISCONCEPTION: Reducing salt intake alone is sufficient to control blood pressure 

FACT: While moderating salt consumption is advisable, it is not the sole factor influencing blood pressure regulation. Many processed foods contain hidden sodium, contributing significantly to overall intake. Patients are encouraged to read food labels diligently, looking out for terms like "sodium" or "NaCl," and to be mindful of their overall dietary habits.^2,3,4 

MISCONCEPTION: If my blood pressure is controlled after taking medication, then I can stop taking medication  

FACT: Abruptly stopping medication without medical supervision can lead to rebound hypertension and increase the risk of complications.⁵ Patient education on the importance of medication adherence and regular follow-ups with healthcare providers is crucial. 

MISCONCEPTION: It’s just at the doctor’s office 

FACT: It’s quite common for blood pressure to go up in times of stress. Known as white-coat hypertension, patients may have elevated blood pressure readings in medical settings due to stress or anxiety, which can lead to misinterpretation and unnecessary concern.^6,7,8 Similarly, masked hypertension is where a patient’s blood pressure is fine when measured in a medical professional but can spike when measured in other settings.^7,8 As a result, patients are advised to monitor their blood pressure regularly at home to provide a more comprehensive picture of their cardiovascular health as they should never ignore multiple readings of high blood pressure. 

MISCONCEPTION: High blood pressure runs in my family so I can’t prevent it 

FACT: While family history can increase the risk of developing hypertension, lifestyle factors play a significant role in its prevention and management. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, moderation of alcohol consumption, and weight management, can help mitigate genetic predispositions and promote cardiovascular health.^9,10 

Dispelling misconceptions surrounding hypertension is crucial for empowering individuals to take control of their cardiovascular health. By promoting accurate understanding and emphasising the importance of regular monitoring, lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and proactive healthcare management, pharmacists can contribute to better outcomes for patients living with hypertension. 

REFERENCES  

1. The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa. ‘Blood Pressure.’ Available from: http://www.heartfoundation.co.za/blood-pressure/ 
2. World Health Organization. WHO warns against the dangers of excessive salt consumption. Available from: https://www.who.int/westernpacific/news/item/25-09-2014-who-warns-against-the-dangers-of-excessive-salt-consumption 
3. Nutrition Information Centre Stellenbosch University (NICUS). Beware of hidden salt in food. Available from: https://www.sun.ac.za/english/faculty/healthsciences/Documents/News/2016/SALT%202016.pdf 
4. Blood Pressure UK. Salt and your blood pressure. Available from: https://www.bloodpressureuk.org/your-blood-pressure/how-to-lower-your-blood-pressure/healthy-eating/salt-and-your-blood-pressure/ 
5. Mayo Clinic. High blood pressure (hypertension). Diagnosis & treatment. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20373417 
6. Cleveland Clinic. White Coat Syndrome. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23989-white-coat-syndrome 
7. Mayo Clinic. White coat hypertension: When blood pressure rises in a medical setting. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/expert-answers/white-coat-hypertension/faq-20057792#:~:text=You%20could%20have%20white%20coat,pressure%20sometimes%20wear%20white%20coats. 
8. Cedars-Sinai. White-Coat Hypertension and Masked Hypertension. Available from: https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/w/white-coat-hypertension-and-masked-hypertension.html 
9. National Kidney Foundation. High Blood Pressure: The Role of the Family. Available from: https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/hbpfamily 
10. Mayo Clinic. 10 ways to control high blood pressure without medication. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/high-blood-pressure/art-20046974