PROGRAM
ECHO HEROES
Heroes Do Not Get Taken By Surprise
There are some surprises in life that are really nice, like surprise parties, surprise gifts, and surprise trips to a park. However, sometimes in life there are surprises that aren't so nice, like bee stings, paper cuts, and high blood pressure! We are going to focus on high blood pressure today.
To avoid this surprise, you can have your blood pressure checked at least once a year and keep track of your results.
Heroes Know Their Numbers
All Echo Heroes have their very own ID called a Blood Pressure Awareness Card (BPAC).
Become an Echo Hero, and you too will have a BPAC to show your super powers!
To begin your hero's journey, follow these steps:
- •Print out your very own BPAC.
- •Customize your ID however you wish. Don't forget to add in a photo or drawing of yourself!
- •Get your blood pressure measurements.
- •Fill out your BPAC with the results (systolic, diastolic, and pulse).
- •Show your BPAC to your healthcare provider at your next appointment.
Heroes Are Always Forward Thinking
Echo Heroes know the importance of lifelong heart health. Show your strength by showing up, getting your blood pressure measured, and sharing our events with your family and friends, so that your whole community can become Echo Heroes too!
A Super Heart Starts Young
Blood pressure is the amount of force your blood pushes against the walls of your arteries.
Blood pressure readings are made up of two values:
Systolic blood pressure: the pressure on the blood vessels when the heart beats
Diastolic blood pressure: the pressure on the blood vessels when the heart muscle relaxes
Most blood pressure monitors also measure pulse, the number of times your heart beats per minute. Pulse isn't a blood pressure reading, but can be a heart health indicator.
Normal blood pressure is below 120/80. If blood pressure increases then remains at 130/90 for multiple readings, that is called hypertension. Hypertension is a chronic condition, which can lead to heart disease.
There are several things that can increase the risk of high blood pressure:
- •Genetics (family history)
- •Unhealthy diet
- •Too much stress
- •Not enough movement (sedentary lifestyles)
Why is it important?
Even though some of it may sound scary, Echo Heroes have no need to fear! To help keep blood pressure at healthy levels, you can make heart-healthy choices. Some examples of these include:
- •Exercising regularly
- •Practicing mindfulness and relaxation activities
- •Getting good quality sleep
- •Eating healthy foods and limiting extra sodium and added sugar