Student Rating: This group has some knowledge of information related to hypertension. Male participants knew less about hypertension and ways to prevent it. Some were unsure whether they were at risk for hypertension while others had a family history of hypertension. Some people had high blood pressure and had difficulty keeping it under control. Most participants had reached a point where they were motivated to change unhealthy behaviors related to hypertension. Individuals aged between 30 and 50. No barriers preventing behavior change were assessed. Willingness to learn: Participants were eager to learn about ways to prevent hypertension. Their motivation for participating in the teaching session was to learn and understand ways to deal with high blood pressure. They had many questions and came with an open mind to listen and receive information about hypertension. Most people had college degrees and the rest were current college students. This showed learning ability and ability to implement the information learned into their life. Development: Participants present recognized the need to improve their lifestyle to prevent hypertension. Those at risk for hypertension implemented changes in their eating habits and started exercising. Individuals in this group seek improvements because they recognize that they are aging and that dysfunctions in bodily functions appear with age. Prevention of Hypertension Hypertension is defined as “repeatedly elevated blood pressure greater than 140 over 90 mmHg – a systolic pressure greater than 140 with a diastolic pressure greater than 90” (MedicineNet.com, 2000). A normal blood pressure is 120 on 80 mm... center of paper... to name a few factors Male participants who had high blood pressure knew what to eat to lower their blood pressure, but found it difficult to resist to foods that contributed to their hypertension. Individuals with hypertension reported checking their blood pressure regularly and checking it at the end of the session. As a teacher, this experience reminded me how simple steps can help keep hypertension under control. At the beginning, anxiety and nervousness took over, due to the fear of speaking in front of an audience. Once the introduction was given and the lesson began, the anxiety and nervousness began to decrease. This experience was very rewarding and people were able to make new friends through this meeting. It is hoped that this teaching session saved and prolonged the lives of these participants.
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