In recent months we have done blood pressure trainings at four different sites in KwaZulu-Natal including Zululand west of Empangeni, semi-rural Etete near Shakaskraal, the rapidly developing city of Cornubia and the predominately Indian city of Chatsworth.  The coral trees loaded with red-orange blooms contrasting with the clear blue winter sky and the big, hardy orange aloes against the dry, golden-brown landscape never fail to delight and renew our spirits.  We, along with a few of our experienced Health Builders, have been blessed to train about forty dedicated learners in blood pressure screening skills and healthy lifestyle change.   High blood pressure is a silent condition that is all too often neglected and can result in catastrophic problems such as heart attack, kidney failure and stroke.  Health Builders are equipped with blood pressure machines to screen for, refer and monitor people with high blood pressure in their communities. We are also preparing the newly trained Health Builders to use weekly videos and discussion questions to run an eight-session healthy lifestyle course focusing on blood pressure with small groups among their family, friends and neighbors.  The animated videos that we have made include information on high blood pressure, the anatomy of the circulatory system, S.M.A.R.T. goal setting, antioxidants, walking, calisthenics and stress management.  The videos are available in English and Zulu. The information and group support can help people to make small weekly changes in their lifestyle which along with medical treatment can effectively bring down people’s blood pressure and extend their lives and function.

• Please pray for our Health Builders to be able to promote better health and well-being through these blood pressure groups in the community.