Homeless adults are two-to-four times more likely to have hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases, at younger ages, than either the general population or low-income adults with stable housing (Szerlip 2002, Burt 1999, Hwang 1999, Kleinman 1997, White 1997, Kinchen and Wright 1991, Wright 1990, Plantieri et al. 1990, and Gelberg 1990, as cited in Zerger 2002). Among the factors that increase their risk are poor diet and excessive use of alcohol, nicotine and other drugs that exacerbate elevated blood pressure and damage the heart. Uncontrolled hypertension (blood pressure >140/90 mm Hg) can lead to heart attack, stroke, or kidney failure.
Categories:
Best Practices, Case Report, Clinical Practice, Homeless Services