Because I say so: Understand High Blood Pressure and Take Control
Hypertension—also known as high blood pressure—is one of the most common and serious cardiovascular risk factors worldwide. Because it often has no symptoms, many people live with high blood pressure without realizing it: around 1 in 2 people with hypertension are unaware of their condition, leaving them exposed to preventable complications such as myocardial infarction, stroke, kidney damage, or even death. This is why hypertension is widely described as a “silent killer.”1
As a recognized care partner in hypertension, Servier is committed to improving awareness, early diagnosis, and long-term control of high blood pressure.
That’s why we are proud to launch the #BecauseIsayso campaign in collaboration with the May Measurement Month initiative (MMM), encouraging everyone to check their blood pressure regularly and understand their numbers. Early detection and appropriate management can help reduce the risk of complications and support people in staying on track with what matters most to them. Explore the information below to learn what blood pressure is, what the readings mean, and how a #TakeControl mindset—built on small, everyday habits—can make a lasting difference.
What is blood pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood around the body. It is measured in millimetres of mercury (mm Hg) and written as two numbers, for example 120/80.
The first number (systolic) reflects the pressure when the heart contracts; the second (diastolic) reflects the pressure when the heart relaxes between beats.2 Understanding these blood pressure numbers matters because repeated readings above the recommended range may indicate hypertension (high blood pressure) and an increased risk of cardiovascular complications.
Because high blood pressure can develop gradually and without symptoms, regular measurement is the most reliable way to spot a problem early and discuss next steps with a healthcare professional.
Did you know?
- Hypertension is usually a long-term condition. Depending on your readings and overall cardiovascular risk, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, treatment, and regular follow-up.
- When high blood pressure is not controlled, it can silently damage the heart, brain, eyes and kidneys over time, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke.
Hypertension affects more than 1.3 billion people worldwide.1 Often called a “silent disease,” high blood pressure may not cause noticeable symptoms—even when it is already harming the body. Each year, hypertension is linked to around 11 million deaths worldwide, many of which could be prevented with earlier detection and appropriate care.1
Servier is helping raise awareness of hypertension (high blood pressure) by encouraging prevention, early diagnosis, and long-term control through the #BecauseIsayso campaign, in collaboration with May Measurement Month (MMM). This year’s theme, #TakeControl, is a reminder that knowing your blood pressure numbers is a practical first step—followed by healthy habits and a conversation with a healthcare professional if readings are high.
If your goal is to prevent high blood pressure—or to better manage hypertension after diagnosis—small, consistent actions can support healthier blood pressure over time. Alongside medical advice, consider these everyday habits:
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly, and record your readings to share with your doctor.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption—two changes that can have a meaningful impact on blood pressure.
- Move more throughout the week and choose a balanced diet that supports heart health.
- Reduce salt and added sugar to help support healthier blood pressure.
- Keep regular check-ups with your doctor, especially if you have risk factors or previous high readings.
- Manage stress with realistic strategies (for example, sleep, movement, breathing exercises, or time outdoors).
#TakeControl #BecauseIsayso
