National Women's Blood Pressure Awareness Week 2024

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Women's Health, National Women's Blood Pressure Awareness Week aims to help women understand and manage their blood pressure by providing strategies and resource to prevent or control high blood pressure. This year, it takes place October 13-19.

This year's them is "Empower Every Era: Blood Pressure Control Across the Lifespan," which highlights the need for women to monitor and control their blood pressure through all stages of life - from young adulthood through menopause. There are four focus areas for this week:

Blood Pressure Control in Early Adulthood. Women in their 20s, 30s, and 40s can be at risk for high blood pressure. Having high blood pressure in early adulthood increases the risk of experiencing a stroke, a heart attack, or another cardiovascular event in middle age. Early adulthood is the perfect time to start habits that can help keep blood pressure in a healthy range and protect the heart. Resources can be found here.

Blood Pressure Considerations in Pregnancy and Postpartum. Blood pressure can change during and after pregnancy. Even if a woman does not have high blood pressure prior to pregnancy, it can develop while they are pregnant or after the baby is born. Resources can be found here.

Menopause and Heart Health. For women, blood pressure becomes even more important as they approach menopause and during the years that follow as their risk of high blood pressure goes up. As estrogen levels drop with age, women are more likely to have heart problems. After menopause, a majority of women are diagnosed with high blood pressure. Resources can be found here.

High Blood Pressure and Health Equity. Controlling blood pressure isn't just about personal choices, such as eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. It's also shaped by broader social factors such as income, education, and access to health care. Ensuring that everyone has a fair chance to control their blood pressure and stay healthy involves striving for health equity. Resources can be found here.