Health Pressure in Schleswig-Holstein: Women More Prone Than Men
Northmore than a fourth of the population in the northern region reportedly struggles with high blood pressure. - Over a quarter of individuals residing in the northern region exhibit elevated blood pressure levels.
Got hypertension issues? You're not alone, especially if you're a woman living in Schleswig-Holstein. Similar to last year, over one-fourth of the insured population over 20 years old here has high blood pressure, according to health insurer AOK Nordwest. Last year, 27.7% of the population had high blood pressure, but the rate has dipped slightly to 27.1% in 2023 - yet, it's still high.
In total, approximately 655,300 people in the region are dealing with this health concern, with doctor-prescribed medication amounting to around 5.3 million packs in 2023. That's almost a quarter (23.3%) of all prescriptions for finished medications. AOK Nordwest shelled out over 123 million euros for this treatment.
Notice a pattern? Hypertension is more common in women. Last year, women accounted for 28.5% of those diagnosed, compared to 25.7% for men. Failing to treat high blood pressure might lead to devastating consequences like strokes, heart attacks, coronary heart disease, and even blindness caused by retinal circulatory disorders. Hypertension is also a potential risk factor for dementia too.
Now, let's delve into the details. If you look at the exact numbers, hypertension prevalence significantly increases with age. Women beyond 50 years see the highest rates. Compared to regions under AOK Nordwest's coverage, Schleswig-Holstein's rates are similar or slightly higher when it comes to women.
Common risk factors associated with high blood pressure include obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and diabetes. Women who have hypertension often have other medical conditions like cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndrome to deal with too.
When it comes to healthcare utilization, you'll notice more medical consultations, prescription medication, and monitoring for those diagnosed with high blood pressure. Preventive measures and lifestyle counseling are key elements of AOK Nordwest's programs, aiming to manage and minimize hypertension risks.
Lastly, early detection and continuous management are urgent to avoid complications. Healthier lifestyle initiatives like exercise programs and nutritional advice are ongoing in Schleswig-Holstein to lower risks and provide better health outcomes for those affected by high blood pressure. Stay informed and take the necessary steps to maintain good health!
Note: For the most recent and detailed statistics, consult AOK Nordwest’s official health reports or contact their regional health management office in Schleswig-Holstein directly.
- Vocational training programs could be beneficial for individuals in the community, especially as part of health-and-wellness initiatives, focusing on fitness-and-exercise and mental-health.
- Nutrition plays a crucial role in managing cardiovascular-health, particularly in women who are more prone to experiencing hypertension.
- It's essential for women's-health to recognize and address symptoms of high blood pressure, as it can lead to severe medical conditions such as strokes, heart attacks, and even blindness.
- In the context of the community policy, it's important to advocate for preventative healthcare that includes regular screenings for medical conditions like hypertension, providing better health-and-wellness outcomes for all insured individuals.
