Control Blood Pressure

# Did you know that high blood pressure is the number controllable risk factor for stroke? Nearly 65 million Americans — 29 million of them are women — have high blood pressure, but a third don't even know it. Have your blood pressure checked at least once a year — more often if you have a history of high blood pressure, have had a heart attack, are diabetic or are overweight.

# Know your family medical history. If high blood pressure runs in your family it's important that you ask your doctor about how to control your blood pressure.

# If you have high blood pressure it's important to follow the recommendations of your doctor, which may include changes in diet, regular exercise and the use of medication.