The Unsung Heroes of Healthcare
- Blessing Amatemeso
- May 25, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 2, 2025
Over the next few weeks, Eustar and Gold will take you on a virtual journey through the fascinating world of medical equipment in our “Equipment Spotlight” series. Before we dive into innovation lane, let’s take a quick trip down memory lane to appreciate some everyday equipment we often overlook — starting with the humble sphygmomanometer.
Earlier this month, we marked World Hypertension Day. Hypertension, also known as “the silent killer,” has become widespread across many demographics. But have you ever wondered who took the first blood pressure measurement, or how this phenomenon was even discovered?
A Brief History of Blood Pressure Measurement
The story begins in 1733 with Reverend Stephen Hales, who performed the first recorded blood pressure measurement using a brass pipe inserted into a horse’s artery, connected to a glass tube. In 1828, Jean Poiseuille developed the first mercury manometer. By 1855, Karl von Vierordt introduced the concept of non-invasive measurement by determining the pressure needed to block an artery — a principle later used in Riva-Rocci’s development of the modern sphygmomanometer in 1896.
Fast forward to 1976, and the world saw the debut of the first fully automated blood pressure device, the Dinamap 825, employing oscillometric technology.
After centuries of innovation, the sphygmomanometer has become a truly essential tool in modern healthcare. Yet, despite being inexpensive and widely available, some community health centers still lack one — and if they don’t have it, neither does the community they serve.
It’s time we stop seeing it as a hospital-only tool. It should be ubiquitous. Everyone should own a sphyg at home.
Meaningful Gift Ideas
Are you looking for an ideal gift for your parents, spouse, or elderly loved ones this Ileya? Or maybe a thoughtful souvenir for the men in church this Father’s Day? Look no further — a digital or manual sphygmomanometer makes a practical and meaningful gift.
No matter your budget or health goals, Eustar and Gold have you covered.
The Importance of Accurate Blood Pressure Measurement
The theme for World Hypertension Day 2025 is:
“Measure your blood pressure accurately, control it, live longer.”
This theme underscores why owning a sphyg is so important. Monitoring blood pressure is not just about data collection; it’s about preventing complications and saving lives.
Hypertension is defined as blood pressure readings consistently higher than 130/90 mmHg. Often there are no symptoms until serious organ damage occurs — hence its nickname, “the silent killer.”
Recognizing Symptoms
When symptoms do appear, they may include:
Severe headache
Chest pain
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Blurred vision
Understanding Risk Factors
Certain factors put you at an increased risk for hypertension. Knowing them prepares you to tackle them effectively.
Non-Modifiable Risk Factors (things you cannot change):
Family history of hypertension
Age over 65 (though it can occur earlier)
Co-existing diseases like diabetes and kidney disease
Modifiable Risk Factors:
Poor diet (especially high salt and fat intake)
Lack of physical activity
Being overweight or obese
Excessive alcohol intake
Chronic stress
Reducing Your Risk
To lower your risk of hypertension, consider the following steps:
Eat more vegetables and fruits
Reduce salt and fatty food consumption
Maintain a healthy weight
Engage in regular physical activity
Limit alcohol intake
Manage stress
Monitor your blood pressure regularly
Treat hypertension early
Manage co-existing health conditions
Take Charge of Your Health
The sphygmomanometer may be small, but its impact is monumental. Whether in your home or in a community clinic, it can detect a silent danger before it strikes.
Health is not a luxury — it’s a responsibility. Own a sphyg. Use it. Understand it. Because what you measure, you can manage — and what you manage, you can control.
Got questions? Ask us. Let’s keep the conversation — and you — healthy.
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