Islamabad: As Pakistan joined global efforts to mark World Hypertension Day on May 17, 2025, medical experts raised serious concerns about the country’s silent health crisis, revealing that nearly 70% of people with hypertension remain unaware of their condition.
According to data shared by public health professionals, hypertension currently affects approximately 18% of Pakistanis over the age of 15, amounting to 5.5 million men and 5.3 million women. The prevalence is significantly higher in urban areas (21.6%) compared to rural regions (16.2%). Experts warn that only a small fraction of those diagnosed have their blood pressure adequately controlled.
Dr. Fazal Abbas emphasized that hypertension is both preventable and treatable, highlighting the importance of regular blood pressure checks and lifestyle changes. “Knowing your blood pressure could be the first life-saving step,” he said, adding that factors such as unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, and stress are major contributors.
Dr. Mubashar Mushtaq echoed these concerns, urging citizens to adopt healthier habits, including reducing salt intake, maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, and avoiding tobacco. He noted that effective hypertension management can significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, and other life-threatening conditions.
This year’s World Hypertension Day, observed under the theme “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer,” stresses early detection and consistent monitoring as key to preventing complications.
The World Health Organization reports that over 1.28 billion adults globally suffer from hypertension, with nearly half unaware of their diagnosis. In the WHO South-East Asia Region alone, more than 294 million individuals are affected by the condition, reinforcing its reputation as a global “silent killer.”
{Dunya News}
