Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and is the primary or contributing factor to more than 360,000 deaths in America today. In Texas, the prevalence of hypertension is increasing. Thirty two and one half percent of adults are living with hypertension, which is higher than the national average. Lifestyle changes which comprises of smoking cessation, controlling blod glucose and lipids, healthy eating and physical activity, are the first line of prevention of hypertension and should be continued throughout the treatment and management of high blood pressure. The US Preventative Service Task Force recommends clinicialns offer behavioral counseling to promote a healthful diet to a patient with hypertension.
