World Hypertension Day 2024: Hypertension is an extremely common condition and if not treated at the right time it can lead to serious complications. Every year, May 17 is observed as World Hypertension Day to raise awareness about this disease and its impact.
According to Prof. (Dr) D. Prabhakaran, MD, DM (Cardiology), MSc, FRCP, FNA, DSc (Honoris Causa).- Executive Director, Centre for Chronic Disease Control, India’s young population, comprising 65% of those under 35, promises to propel the nation to the ranks of the world’s top economies by FY’28.
“However, amid this optimism lies a harsh trend – 27 million young adults grapple with hypertension, posing a formidable health challenge. Not only does hypertension account for a significant portion (40-45%) of CVD-related deaths, but it also escalates the risk of premature mortality and disability. Urgent collaborative action across various stakeholders is imperative to prioritize hypertension treatment through primary healthcare. Such efforts not only safeguard lives but can also shield India from an estimated economic loss of approximately $2.7 trillion by 2030 due to CVDs,” Dr. Prabhakaran said.
Dr. Manoj A. G, Consultant Physician on Practo told Financial Express.com that hypertension, often dubbed the “silent killer,” is a chronic medical condition where the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated.
“Symptoms of hypertension are often subtle and can include headaches, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, and nosebleeds, although many people experience no symptoms at all. Key risk factors for developing hypertension include a family history of high blood pressure, age (the risk increases as you get older), obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, tobacco use, excessive salt consumption, alcohol abuse, and chronic stress. Additionally, certain underlying conditions like diabetes and kidney disease can also elevate the risk,” Dr. Manoj said.
The hidden dangers of hypertension are significant. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and vision loss. It can also cause damage to the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis, which further increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, he said.
“Given these risks, the importance of monitoring and managing high blood pressure cannot be overstated. Regular blood pressure checks help in early detection and timely intervention, reducing the risk of adverse health outcomes. Lifestyle modifications like the DASH diet, restricting salt intake, regular physical activity, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol intake, alongside prescribed medications, can effectively manage and control high blood pressure,” he told Financial Express.com.
Lifestyle changes can help lower high blood pressure and can help anyone with hypertension. But is it curable?
According to most major guidelines, it is recommended that hypertension be diagnosed when a person’s systolic blood pressure (SBP) in the office or clinic is ≥140 mm Hg and/or their diastolic blood pressure (DBP) is ≥90 mm Hg following repeated examination.
“People older than 40 years old should have their blood pressure checked one time a year. The ages between 18 and 40 years old should get their blood pressure checked every three to five years unless they fall into the high-risk category,” Dr. Tushar Tayal, Lead Consultant, Department of Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram told Financial Express.com.
Hypertension is primarily a lifestyle disorder along with diabetes, obesity and metabolic syndrome. Genes likely play some role in high blood pressure and people with a family history of high blood pressure likely share common environments and other potential factors that increase their risk. Even if there are hereditary factors, the majority of the time BP can be kept under control with lifestyle measures.
These include:
- Reduced salt intake – salt intake in a hypertensive should be less than 2.5 gm per day or 1/2 teaspoon in the entire day
- High potassium diet – Ensure intake of 2 fruits and 3 vegetables every day which are rich in potassium which has a BP lowering effect
- Exercise – 30 min of daily exercise inclusive of cardio and strength training will keep BP under control
- Pranayam/yoga – 30 min of breathing exercise and meditation will reduce stress hormones and help in reducing BP
- Sleep – 7 hrs of sleep daily is essential for maintaining immunity and healthy body functions
- Optimal body weight – obesity itself is a risk factor for hypertension and losing excess body weight helps in bringing down the blood pressure.
“It is important to check BP and keep it under control ( with or without medication ) because Undiagnosed hypertension is a risk factor for stroke, heart attack, kidney damage, and eye damage. Hypertension is a Controllable disease and with proper lifestyle measures, BP can be kept in optimal range for prolonged periods,” Dr. Tayal said.
Is hypertension curable?
Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a prevalent health issue affecting millions worldwide. According to Dr. Nishith Chandra – Principal Director, Interventional Cardiology, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, Okhla Road, New Delhi, while it’s not typically “curable” in the traditional sense, it can be effectively managed and controlled through lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication.
“Healthy lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in managing hypertension. This includes maintaining a balanced diet low in sodium, saturated fats, and cholesterol, while high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Regular exercise, such as brisk walking or swimming, can also help lower blood pressure,” Dr. Chandra said.
Additionally, managing stress levels through relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises can contribute to overall blood pressure control. Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol consumption are also essential factors in hypertension management.
He also informed that for some individuals with hypertension, medication may be necessary to control their blood pressure effectively. These medications work by targeting different mechanisms in the body to reduce blood pressure levels, he said.
“It’s important to note that while hypertension may not be “curable” in the traditional sense, effective management can significantly reduce the risk of complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. Regular monitoring of blood pressure levels and working closely with healthcare professionals are essential for maintaining optimal health outcomes,” he said.
‘There is no permanent cure for high blood pressure’
High blood pressure is typically symptomless, which quietly damages the blood vessels and ultimately leads to serious health problems like stroke, heart attacks renal failure, etc.
“Although there is no permanent cure for high blood pressure, In some rare cases there are reversible causes of hypertension such as renal artery stenosis and also some rare tumors which can be treated to reverse hypertension,” Dr. Ashwani Mehta, Senior Consultant cardiologist, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi told Financial Express.com.
Also treating obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, where patients typically snore at night and have day time drowsiness can help patients in controlling the blood pressure, Dr. Mehta said.
The advantages of blood pressure medications are evident: They maintain blood pressure within healthy ranges, significantly diminishing the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
“Generally, the risks associated with these medications are minimal. While typically requiring lifelong adherence, certain individuals can decrease or discontinue their usage by addressing modifiable factors contributing to high blood pressure (hypertension),” he highlighted.
Patients need to take the lifestyle changes that matter and take BP-lowering medications regularly as prescribed by their physicians.
“Certain healthy lifestyle changes, such as a low sodium diet and regular exercise which includes a daily walk of about 10,000 steps or physical activity of at least 150 minutes a week in the form of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, swimming, or sports can help. Another change that can reduce blood pressure are limiting alcohol. Managing stress and controlling weight and smoking can also reduce the risk associated with high blood pressure,” Dr. Mehta said.
