Hypertension

High Blood Pressure (HBP) or Hypertension is a common condition here as about 27% of Singaporeans suffer from high blood pressure.

Hypertension, if left untreated, may lead to stroke, heart attack and kidney failure, which can kill or leave one severely disabled.

Risk factors of hypertension are:
- Family history of hypertension.
- Sedentary lifestyle; exercise helps maintain normal blood pressure.
- Stress.
- Smoking
- Weight gains (extra weight increases blood pressure)
- Diet: Fats, cholesterol-rich foods and salt can all lead to raised blood pressure.
- Birth control pills; many women have a slight increase in blood pressure while on the pill. It is necessary to switch contraceptives if dangerously high hypertension arises.
- Alcohol: Heavy alcohol consumption has been linked to hypertension.

If the blood pressure remains high despite a modification in life-style and diet, you will need a drug to bring the blood pressure down. The drug does not cure the hypertension but will control it.

Classification of Blood Pressure Levels for Adults
Category Systolic BP, Diastolic BP
Normal BP: <130, <85
High-Normal BP: 130 – 139, 85 – 89
Grade I Hypertension (mild): 140 – 159, 90 – 99
Grade 2 Hypertension (moderate): 160 – 179, 100 – 109
Grade 3 Hypertension (severe): >180, >110

An important question on most hypertensive people's minds would be, "Can I still buy health insurance at standard rates and standard coverage?"

Most insurance companies will impose a clause in their health insurance plans to exclude coverage for hypertension-related conditions for applicants who are already diagnosed with hypertension.

However, I am glad that I have been able to get standard coverage (without any exclusions imposed) for my clients with only mild hypertension and who have shown that their conditions are under control through regular medication. My insurance principal takes a more liberal view and will offer standard coverage for those who take responsibility to maintain their blood pressure under control through regular consultation with their physicians and regular medication.

So, for those with mild hypertension, it's not too late to review your health insurance coverage.