Ministerial Message - World Health Day 2013

As communities around the world join on April 7 to observe  World Health Day, it provides us with an opportunity to consider the role we all play in leading healthier lives and preventing chronic diseases.

The theme of World Health Day 2013 is high blood pressure. Having high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney failure. In Canada, heart attack and stroke are among the leading causes of death and hospitalization. Worldwide, more than one in three adults has high blood pressure.

The prevalence of high blood pressure has remained stable over the past few years, but the rates of awareness, treatment and control of the condition has increased. More and more, Canadians who live with hypertension are keeping it under control.

The Government of Canada is committed to raising awareness of and investing in the prevention and control of high blood pressure. In 2010-2011, for example, research investments in heart health through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research totalled more than $98 million. In addition, we are advancing integrated approaches to address healthy living and chronic disease prevention by working with partners in the private and not-for-profit sectors. Through the Healthy Living Fund, to which the Government of Canada invests $5 million annually, innovative programs are being delivered that support Canadians in making healthy living choices.

Our government is also working with the  World Health Organization to exchange information with international partners on non-communicable diseases like high blood pressure.  

High blood pressure is preventable. This year, on World Health Day, I encourage all Canadians  to learn about how they can prevent or reduce their risk of being diagnosed with the disease. Regular screening, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing salt intake, avoiding high-fat foods and alcohol misuse, being more active, and eating more fruit and vegetables all contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of Health
Government of Canada