According to the National Population Health Survey 2022, over one in three Singaporeans between age 18 to 74 years has hypertension (or persistent high blood pressure), an increase from 35.5% in 2020 to 37.0% in 2022. – Singapore Heart Foundation

What causes high BP?
High levels of stress can elevate one’s blood pressure and may induce unhealthy lifestyle habits that eventually contribute to the development of the condition. Examples such as excessive alcohol, smoking, sedentary lifestyles and a poor diet that are rich in salt, sugar, and fats.

As time passes, this can result in damage of the heart and blood vessels, leading to stroke, heart attack or renal failure. At times, when the blood pressure is too high, one can experience headaches, dizziness or changes in vision. Older people face a greater risk of developing hypertension.

More symptoms of severe high blood pressure

• Severe headaches
• Nose bleed
• Fatigue or confusion
• Difficulty breathing
• Irregular heartbeat
• Blood in the urine
• Chest pain

Hence, it helps one to prevent and reduce these risks significantly by going for high blood pressure screening periodically.

What is the purpose of a blood pressure screening?

Screening for high blood pressure reduces the risk of unfavourable health outcomes such as heart attack, stroke, and mortality. It is a reliable method of diagnosing high blood pressure sooner rather than later, allowing for early treatment.

How to screen for high blood pressure?

A blood pressure test may be performed as part of a general health examination or as part of a screening for abnormal blood pressure (hypertension). Some people check their blood pressure at home using home monitors.

Screen for Life is a nationwide screening scheme that provides health screening costs to Singaporeans in order to encourage regular health screening and follow-up. One can prevent or delay the beginning of certain diseases, as well as their complications, with early detection and proper action.

At $5 or less, eligible Singapore Citizens can go for cardiovascular disease (diabetes, blood cholesterol, blood pressure), cervical cancer and colorectal cancer screening at participating CHAS GP clinics islandwide.