My Research Prospectus Hypertension: A Rising Problem in Today’s Society

Statement of the Problem  In today’s society, people are becoming more and more aware of a rapid growing problem in human health. This problem is known as hypertension, or high blood pressure, and it is becoming a profound health problem in our American society.

Research Questions  What causes hypertension?  Who does it affect? (race, sex, genetics)  What are some ways to prevent hypertension?

Research Methods  The goal of this study is to show the public that hypertension is a major problem in our society today. The research presented is formatted to show individuals, affected and not affected by this all too common arterial disease, that a few healthy changes in lifestyle such as food intake or diet, along with some exercise can not only decrease your risk for hypertension, but it can also diminish an existing hypertension problem.

Findings/Conclusions  I believe that if people take precautions and live well and lead a healthy lifestyle then this unnecessary, but all too common problem could be prevented. The key steps to taking care of and preventing hypertension are as follows. One should always maintain a healthy weight by incorporating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, high in low fat products, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and low in saturated fat. Following this diet has been proven to reduce the systolic blood pressure number by 6 mm Hg and 3 mm Hg to the diastolic number. Exercise should always be incorporated into your life. Exercise has the ability to lower blood pressure in small amounts, which in turn increases the chance of weight loss.  Another important factor in controlling hypertension is sodium intake, or salt intake. Salt can cause an elevation in blood pressure if consumed in unhealthy amounts. Potassium also plays a role in controlling hypertension. A recommended dose of calcium is around 5,000 mg per day. With that being said, the average American consumes around half of that daily. Sufficient intake of calcium is associated with reducing blood pressure. One should also limit their intake of alcohol on a daily basis and incorporate the cessation of smoking if at all possible (Employee Benefit News).