A scene during the workshop.
PHILIPSBURG--Questions raised during a recent Heart Health Workshop at Victory Temple Church of God of Prophecy highlighted the need for greater public education about managing high blood pressure, according to health coach and public health professional Vanessa I. Farrell.
The workshop, held last Thursday as part of the church's "Matters of the Heart" series, attracted strong community interest as participants sought practical guidance on monitoring and controlling hypertension.
Farrell, who is based in St. Croix, said many of the questions asked during the session reflected concerns she frequently encounters when working with clients. "People often know they have high blood pressure, but they don't always understand how to manage it effectively day-to-day. Education remains one of our strongest tools for prevention and control."
Throughout the workshop, participants asked a variety of questions about blood pressure management, including the best time to take blood pressure readings, which arm should be used, why a full bladder can affect results, the proper technique for measuring blood pressure at home, and how often readings should be taken.
Attendees also sought advice about foods that support healthy blood pressure, the importance of recording blood pressure readings, and what to do when medication doses are missed.
Farrell said these seemingly simple questions can significantly affect how people understand and manage the condition.
"Many individuals rely on how they feel to determine whether their blood pressure is under control. The reality is that hypertension often has no symptoms until a serious health event occurs. That's why knowing your numbers and monitoring them consistently is so important."
According to information shared during the workshop, hypertension continues to be recognised as a major public health challenge in St. Maarten. While updated prevalence figures from the 2023-2024 STEPS Survey are still pending publication, the 2015 National Health Survey identified high blood pressure as a common condition among adults on the island.
Participants left the session pledging to make changes aimed at improving their health.
One attendee committed to recording blood pressure readings daily to better understand how medication was affecting their health.
Others said they would pay closer attention to sodium levels in foods, adopt healthier cooking methods, take medication consistently and monitor their blood pressure regularly rather than waiting until they felt unwell. "I never realised how much sodium was hidden in everyday foods. Going forward, I will be more intentional about my food choices," said one participant.
Another participant said, "This session helped me realise the importance of monitoring my blood pressure consistently instead of waiting until I don't feel well."
A third attendee added, "I understand now that taking my medication as prescribed is important, even when I feel fine."
Bishop Dr. Michael Greenaway, Senior Pastor of Victory Temple COGOP, said the strong response demonstrated the community's interest in practical health education.
Farrell is the Chief Executive Officer of VI Health & Wellness Coaching, LLC, which provides education, coaching, journals and wellness resources aimed at helping individuals improve their health outcomes and quality of life.
The workshop formed part of ongoing efforts to increase awareness about heart health and encourage healthier lifestyle choices within the community.
