Learn the facts and skills to manage your own blood pressure at a free public talk delivered by leading hypertension specialists from The University of Queensland.
UQ’s Professor Michael Stowasser and Associate Professor James Sharman will present self-empowerment strategies for measuring and managing blood pressure at home.
Associate Professor Sharman said incorrect diagnosis or treatment could result, even when blood pressure is measured by a doctor.
“The biggest concern is when people have ‘white coat hypertension’,” Associate Professor Sharman said.
“This happens when the patient feels anxious about the doctor taking the measurement, causing blood pressure to become elevated from the anxiety, not the underlying condition.
“Home blood pressure measurement can help fix this situation, as readings at home are more representative of an individual’s true underlying blood pressure.”
Speakers will focus on:
• The importance of blood pressure and how to improve it through lifestyle choices
• The latest information on blood pressure measurement
• The problems associated with measuring blood pressure in the clinic (especially white coat hypertension)
• Why home blood pressure measurement is a good option
• Breaking down the barriers to best blood pressure management
Attendees will also be given an update on the Princess Alexandra Hospital’s latest research on blood pressure and the opportunity to participate in a new study.
The presentation will be held at Greenslopes Private Hospital on Thursday 29 August at 7pm and is cohosted by the Queensland Hypertension Association.
Professor Stowasser and Associate Professor Sharman are on an expert panel writing about home blood pressure management in Australia.
They will be seeking advice from the audience on the guidelines being prepared.
“This is a great opportunity for people to have their say and make an impact on the Australian guidelines,” Associate Professor Sharman said.
Date: Thursday 29 August 2013 Time: Light supper served from 6:30pm, presentation commencing 7pm Venue: Conference Room 2, Ground Floor, Jesse Vasey Wing, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Newdegate Street, Greenslopes RSVP: Deborah Gilroy, 07 3176 6614, d.gilroy@uq.edu.au or 07 3394 7482, fax 07 3394 7815, hypertension.gph@ramsayhealth.com.au, or QHA, PO box 193, Holland Park
Media: Brian Mallon, Communication Officer, School of Medicine, 0403621109, 07 3365 5254 b.mallon@uq.edu.au
