Aspirus Health Shares Ways to Prevent and Manage High Blood Pressure
Experts encourage early screening and healthy habits during High Blood Pressure Education Month
5/18/2026
Dr. Michael Zevitz, Aspirus Cardiology
As part of High Blood Pressure Education Month, Aspirus Health is encouraging community members to better understand and manage high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, a condition that often has no noticeable symptoms until serious complications occur.
“High blood pressure is very common. There are roughly 125 million Americans living with it, and many don’t even know they have it,” said Michael Zevitz, MD, Aspirus Cardiologist.
Because symptoms are often absent, high blood pressure can quietly damage the body for years before complications develop.
“People can feel completely normal even with systolic blood pressure readings well above 180,” Dr. Zevitz said. “Often the first sign is a major complication.”
Untreated high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and vascular disease.
Risk also rises with age. According to national health survey data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), well over half of adults 60 and older are affected.
Certain groups face a higher risk, including people with diabetes.
“If you have diabetes, your risk of developing hypertension at some point is significantly higher,” Dr. Zevitz said. “Those two conditions are closely linked.”
People with kidney disease, heart conditions, and autoimmune disorders are also at increased risk. Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, high sodium intake, lack of exercise, excess alcohol use, and being overweight can also contribute to high blood pressure.
The good news, Dr. Zevitz said, is that small changes can make a meaningful difference.
“You don’t have to lose a lot of weight to make a big difference in lowering your blood pressure,” he said. Regular physical activity, reducing sodium intake, managing stress and limiting alcohol consumption can all help.
Aspirus Health encourages individuals to talk with their health care provider about blood pressure screening and management. Early detection and treatment can help prevent serious complications and support long-term heart health.
To learn more about Aspirus Cardiology, visit aspirus.org/heart-vascular-services.
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