World Down Syndrome Day: Improve our Support Systems

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March 21st is known internationally as World Down Syndrome Day, a day dedicated by the United Nations to bring awareness and promote inclusion of persons living with Down Syndrome. But why is there an emphasis on Down Syndrome? Within our society, individuals who do not display typical signs of development are often excluded or cast aside. Unfortunately, society has placed individuals with Down Syndrome within this category without understanding the condition. Hence the need to debunk myths, spread awareness and advocate for better support systems to promote inclusivity of individuals living with living with the condition. What is Down Syndrome? Down Syndrome refers to a genetic condition that occurs when an individual is born with 3 copies of chormosome 21, as opposed to the usual 2 copies.  To break it down simply, an extra DNA package is created.  As a result, children with Down Syndrome experience intellectual delays and display distinct bodily features. Individuals with d...
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High Blood Pressure: The Silent Assassin

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Growing up, we often played the game Assassin. Each player was assigned a secret role- villagers, a healer, and the assassin. Once everyone's eyes were closed, the Assassin was instructed to eliminate a player. The healer would then choose a player at random hoping to undo the damage that the assassin had done. If wrong player was chosen, then the assassin's elimination stood. 

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is similar to the assassin in this game except there is nothing playful about the condition. High blood pressure levels are often a result of:
  •  a high salt diet 
  • lack of exercise
  • increased alcohol consumption
  • smoking
  • being overweight/obese
 Nicknamed the "Silent Killer", High blood pressure does not come with warning signs like a sore throat or runny nose.  As the disease worsens, signs and symptoms become apparent as people often experience headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.

However, there is good news! Like the healer of the game, action can be taken to prevent harm. Below are some steps that can be used to manage blood pressure levels/ prevent hypertension.



Frequent Blood Pressure Checks 


Consume More Fruits and Vegetables 


Reduce Salt Intake 


Exercise for 30 minutes  a day (150 minutes a week) 


Manage Stress Effectively 


Limit Smoking and Alcohol Consumption

Hypertension may be silent but by staying aware and following preventative measures, we can prevent or manage hypertension before complications arise. If you want more information about Hypertension, feel free to comment any topics or questions below!

Until our next post,









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