More than half of the US population has hypertension and it is more prevalent in the Black community. We know that cutting back on salt can improve blood pressure control and save lives. Our animated music video and song, “Let’s Talk about Salt” provides evidence-based tips on how to do this in a fun and relatable way.
“Let’s Talk About Salt” is a animated music video PSA starring Grammy®-winning Cheryl “Salt” James from the iconic group, Salt-N-Pepa.
High blood pressure (hypertension) is a leading cause of heart disease and stroke, which together kills more New Yorkers than any other disease.
About one in four New Yorkers has high blood pressure, but there are usually no symptoms. Black and Latino adults are more likely to have high blood pressure than other races/ethnicities.
Blood pressure is the force of blood moving through your blood vessels. The higher it is, the more damage it can do to the inside of your blood vessels. High blood pressure can also lead to problems with your kidneys, eyes and to sexual dysfunction.
Everyone should know their blood pressure. You can get it checked by asking your health care provider, visiting a pharmacy or checking it yourself using a home monitor.
Hip Hop Public Health’s 2020 rendition which was funded in part through the American Heart Association’s New York City Community Impact Grant encourages hypertension prevention by teaching young people about healthy eating and salt consumption with a visually stimulating music video.
Hip Hop Public Health’s mission is to foster positive health behavior change through the transformative power of hip-hop music.
Understanding Your Blood Pressure Numbers
Blood pressure is reported with two numbers, one written over the other. The top number, systolic blood pressure, reflects the amount of pressure in your arteries when your heart squeezes to pump blood. The bottom number, diastolic blood pressure, reflects the amount of pressure in your arteries when your heart relaxes between heartbeats.
For People Not Diagnosed with Hypertension
| Systolic (upper) | Diastolic (lower) | Category and Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Below 120 and | Below 80 | Normal. No action necessary. |
| 120–139 or | 80–89 | Elevated. Talk with your your health care provider at your normally scheduled visit. |
| 140–179 or | 90–109 | High. Talk with your health care provider soon. |
| 180 or Higher or | 110 or Higher | Dangerously High. You could be in danger. Get medical care immediately. |
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