Know your BP & keep it under check

Team L&M

More than 1.28 billion people worldwide are living with high blood pressure, according to the latest WHO data. This preventable yet life-threatening condition remains one of the leading risk factors for heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and premature death.

India alone has over 220 million individuals suffering from hypertension, with nearly one in three adults affected. Alarmingly, only 12 per cent have their blood pressure under control, and more than 50 per cent remain unaware of their condition, highlighting the urgent need for regular screening and lifestyle intervention.

Recent Indian Celebrity Deaths Highlight the Risks of Uncontrolled Hypertension
In India, several well-known personalities have succumbed to heart-related complications often linked to uncontrolled hypertension. Sudden heart attacks have claimed the lives of relatively young individuals, highlighting the growing risk of cardiac events among younger and middle-aged populations. These tragic incidents underscore the critical importance of regular health monitoring, especially during physical activity, and serve as stark reminders of the severe consequences of untreated or poorly managed hypertension.

What is Hypertension?
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, occurs when the force of the blood against the artery walls remains consistently high, typically defined as blood pressure readings of 140/90 mmHg or higher. It is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and often goes unnoticed until it causes serious complications. Readings between 140/90 and 159/99 mmHg mean Stage 1 hypertension, while 160/100 mmHg or more means Stage 2. If the reading goes over 180/110 mmHg, it’s called a hypertensive urgency. Hypertension is classified into two types. Primary hypertension develops gradually over time and is often linked to age and lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress. Secondary hypertension, on the other hand, results from an underlying medical condition such as kidney disease, hormonal imbalances, certain medications, or sleep apnea.

MAY 17 IS WORLD HYPERTENSION DAY

While hypertension usually shows no symptoms in the early stages, severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure may lead to warning signs such as persistent headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, fatigue, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and difficulty in breathing. Recognizing these signs early and seeking timely medical attention is crucial for preventing long-term health complications.

This year’s World Hypertension Day message Know Your Blood Pressure & Keep It Under Check warns against this silent killer.

Says Dr Murali Krishna CH V, Senior Neuro Physician, CARE Hospitals, Malakpet, “Hypertension is often symptomless in its early stages, which is why it’s called the silent killer. However, if left unchecked, it can cause irreversible damage to organs and lead to serious complications such as stroke, heart attack, vision loss, and kidney failure. Awareness and timely management can truly save lives.”

Dr SK Tripathy, Senior Cardiologist, CARE Hospitals, Musheerabad emphasises that adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is just as important as taking prescribed medication. “Regular health check-ups, a balanced diet, and consistent physical activity can significantly help in managing blood pressure,” he says.

Preventive measures to keep hypertension under control
Limiting salt intake to less than 5 grams per day, avoiding smoking and alcohol, maintaining a healthy body weight, and incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into the daily diet. Engaging in at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day, managing stress through techniques like meditation or yoga, and monitoring blood pressure regularly are also crucial steps in preventing and managing hypertension effectively. s a direct call to action, urging individuals to take charge of their heart health through precise monitoring and consistent management.

Dr. Jinendra Jain, Internal Medicine Specialist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, stresses the urgency: “Hypertension is often symptomless until it leads to serious complications like stroke, heart attack, or kidney failure. That’s why it’s called the ‘silent killer.’

Regular and accurate monitoring is not optional—it’s essential
According to the World Health Organisation, over 1.2 billion people globally live with hypertension, yet nearly half are unaware they have it. In India, poor awareness, late diagnosis, and inconsistent treatment continue to drive up complications.

“Many patients rely on sporadic checks at clinics or pharmacies. But without consistent, accurate readings, we miss the bigger picture. Home monitoring with validated devices, combined with lifestyle changes and proper medication, can prevent life-altering events,” adds Dr Jain.