Community Headlines Health and Wellness

Low income areas have higher rates of high blood pressure

Dr. Robinson leads Hamilton Community Health Network Initiative of Hypertension Screenings and Prevention

Donald Robinson, MD, of Hamilton Community Health Network’s North Pointe clinic wants to encourage everyone to see their doctor for a blood pressure screening. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America, and it all starts with hypertension.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects nearly half of the adult population here in America. Two-thirds of those living with hypertension live in low or middle-class areas. Flint has the nation’s second-highest poverty rate in America, meaning there is a high percentage of people living here in Flint who are experiencing hypertension.

“Less than half of the people with hypertension are diagnosed and being treated,” Dr. Robinson explains. “This is due to the low number of people going for their annual check-ups and the low education on what hypertension is and how to prevent and treat it. Treatment starts with the diagnosis. But prevention starts with education.”

Hypertension is a prevalent condition that can be managed through proactive measures. Understanding the root causes of elevated blood pressure is essential in preventing its onset. These risk factors can include older age, genetics, being overweight, having low or no physical activity, eating a high-salt diet and drinking too much alcohol.

“Hamilton is here as a great resource to the Flint community experiencing high blood pressure,” Dr. Robinson encourages. “We will see you whether you have insurance or not. With Hamilton’s sliding fee scale, it is affordable to go to the doctor’s appointment you have been putting off for years.”

Symptoms of hypertension can include severe headaches, chest pain, difficulty breathing, nausea, changes in vision, anxiety, and more. Those that are experiencing these symptoms or have a family history of high blood pressure are encouraged to make an appointment at Hamilton Community Health Network, with Dr. Robinson, or with any of thier other 40+ providers.

Call 810-406-4246, or visit HamiltonCHN.org to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Robinson encourages you to ‘Get your blood pressure checked and learn more about how to get it under control. We are here to help and will make it accessible and easy for you.’

About Hamilton Community Health Network

Hamilton Community Health Network is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive, quality, community-oriented health care for the underserved throughout Genesee, Lapeer County and surrounding areas. The organization is part of a national network of primary care centers (Section 330E) aimed at improving health services for inner-city populations. These centers provide comprehensive care to patients regardless of their ability to pay. For more information, visit hamiltonchn.org.

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