Welcome to the final episode in our special three-part series with the British and Irish Hypertension Society for Hypertension Awareness Month! I’m Dr. Sarah Birkhoelzer, and today I’m joined by Professor Ian Wilkinson - renowned clinician and current president of the British and Irish Hypertension Society - for a powerful conversation on how high blood pressure quietly wreaks havoc on the body.
We unpack why hypertension is called the “silent killer,” how it damages critical organs like the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes, and why early detection and prevention truly are your superpowers. Whether you're a clinician, patient, or just health-curious, this episode delivers practical tools, powerful insights, and clear steps you can take right now to take control of your blood pressure - and your long-term health.
[0:00] - Kicking off Hypertension Awareness Month with a deep dive into why prevention matters
[0:54] - Why high blood pressure often goes undetected—and why that's dangerous
[2:57] - The simple, lifesaving habit of regular blood pressure checks
[4:46] - How hypertension can quietly damage the brain and increase your risk of stroke and dementia
[17:34] - The hidden effects of high blood pressure on your kidneys
[21:28] - How your eyes can reveal the early warning signs of hypertension
[24:03] - Understanding the serious cardiac consequences of uncontrolled blood pressure
[26:54] - Final thoughts on prevention, awareness, and empowering yourself with knowledge
Blood Pressure UK – Trusted resources on hypertension management
Hypertension Society UK – Research, guidelines, and expert insights
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Share it with friends and family to help spread awareness about the importance of heart health and blood pressure management. Stay tuned for part two of this special series.
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