The World Health Organization (WHO) says that on the occasion of World Hypertension Day, high blood pressure is a “silent killer”, but early detection, regular monitoring and continued treatment can prevent most complications and deaths caused by the disease.
World Hypertension Day is observed every year on 17 May and forms part of Hypertension Awareness Month. It aims to raise global awareness of high blood pressure, promote prevention, detection and control, and encourage action at individual, community and health-system levels.
According to WHO data, hypertension remains the leading preventable cause of premature death worldwide, with an estimated 1.4 billion people affected globally. Despite the availability of effective and affordable treatments, many people remain unaware of their condition, and only about one in four people with hypertension have their blood pressure adequately controlled.
Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it usually shows no symptoms but significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and premature death. Early detection, regular monitoring and sustained treatment can prevent most hypertension-related complications.
This year’s WHO theme for World Hypertension Day, “Controlling Hypertension Together: check your blood pressure regularly, defeat the silent killer”, highlights shared responsibility and calls for action from individuals, families, communities, health professionals and health systems.
The WHO stressed that early detection, regular blood pressure checks and continuous treatment can prevent most complications.
It also highlighted the importance of a healthy diet, regular physical activity, avoiding tobacco use, reducing alcohol consumption and taking medicines as prescribed by doctors.
The organization said controlling hypertension requires continuous care, stable access to health services and medicines, and regular follow-up, adding that strengthening primary healthcare and ensuring equitable access to diagnosis and treatment can help reduce inequalities.
It called on people, families, health workers and responsible institutions to raise awareness, expand regular blood pressure screening and improve diagnosis and treatment services.
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