Hypertension has become a rapidly growing problem in India. According to the WHO 2025 report, more than 210 million adults in the country are affected by high blood pressure. Only 39% are aware of their condition, and 83% have poorly controlled blood pressure. Lack of timely treatment...

High blood pressure, or hypertension, has become a serious health problem in India. According to a new report from the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 210 million adults (30-79 years old) in the country are affected by this condition, representing approximately 30% of the country's total population. Most people are unaware of their condition, and lack of timely treatment can lead to serious health risks.

The figures reveal the severity

• Number of victims: More than 21 crore.
• Lack of information: Only 39% of people know that they suffer from high BP.
• Lack of control: 83% of people have their blood pressure under control. Only 17% of patients have their blood pressure under control.

High blood pressure puts extra strain on the heart and brain. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems like heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, eye problems, and dementia.

Situation around the world

In 2024, 1.4 billion people globally suffered from high blood pressure, representing 34% of the world's population. But only one in five people is able to control it through medication or lifestyle modifications. According to WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, more than 1,000 people die every hour from high blood pressure-related illnesses.

Barriers to accessing treatment

• Of the 195 countries, 99 have a control rate of less than 20%.
• The availability of medicines in poor countries is only 28%, while in rich countries it is 93%.
• Main reasons: weak policies (excessive salt, alcohol, tobacco, trans fat), expensive medicines, shortage of doctors, diagnostic equipment and supply chain problems.

Dr. Tom Frieden says that affordable and safe medicines are available, but millions of people are unable to access them. Addressing this shortage could save millions of lives and billions of dollars.

Examples of success

Some countries have achieved significant success in controlling high blood pressure:

1. Bangladesh: Control rate increased from 15% to 56% in 2019-2025.
2. Philippines: WHO's heart packages delivered to villages.
3. South Korea: Control rate 59% by 2022 through affordable medicines.

India's achievement

India has improved high blood pressure control. Since 2018-2019, free generic drugs have been made available at government clinics. Drug prices have been capped.

• Previously, only 14% of patients had their blood pressure controlled.
• Now, BP is under control in 70-81% of patients in Punjab and Maharashtra, with average systolic BP reduced by 15-16 mmHg.

WHO appeal and precautions

The WHO has urged all countries to prioritize high blood pressure control in their health plans. Taking the right steps could prevent millions of deaths and reduce the economic burden.

Prevention methods

1. Reduce salt and eat a balanced diet.
2. Exercise regularly.
3. Get your blood pressure checked from time to time.
4. Take the medicine as per the doctor's advice.

With timely treatment and adopting a healthy lifestyle, it is possible to prevent high blood pressure and live a healthy life for a long time.

 PC:Punjab Kesari