The rapidly increasing prevalence of high blood pressure in India has now become a serious public health crisis. Experts estimate that millions of people are affected by this disease, but a lack of awareness, regular screening, and treatment has led to a worrying situation. The biggest threat is that a large number of people are living with this disease without symptoms, leading to sudden heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure. Hypertension is becoming a silent killer, with alarming statistics.
On the occasion of World Hypertension Day, Dr. (Prof.) Tarun Kumar, cardiologist at Medanta, stated that approximately 220 million people in India suffer from hypertension, but only 10 to 12 percent of these patients have their blood pressure under control. He described it as a “silent killer,” saying it causes serious damage to the body without any symptoms. Half of patients are unaware of their condition.
According to experts, the biggest problem with hypertension is its diagnosis. More than 50 percent of people in the country are unaware of their high blood pressure. In this situation, if diagnosed early, the disease can become serious, directly affecting the heart, brain, and kidneys. Even after treatment, control remains difficult.
Dr. Kumar explained that a large number of patients who begin treatment discontinue their medications midway. Even among those who receive regular treatment, nearly half of them fail to control their blood pressure. This is why only a small percentage of patients reach the recommended standards. What should be the normal blood pressure?
According to experts, normal blood pressure should be less than 120/80 mmHg. If it reaches 130/80 mmHg or higher, it is considered high blood pressure and a doctor’s consultation is necessary. Diet and lifestyle changes are essential.
Lifestyle modifications, along with medication, are crucial for controlling hypertension. Doctors recommend the DASH diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, pulses, nuts, and seeds. Reduce salt and avoid fried foods.
Experts recommend keeping salt intake below 2,300 mg per day and limiting it to 1,500 mg for better control. It’s also important to avoid fried and high-sugar foods. Prevention is possible only through regular checkups and medication.
Doctors say that regular blood pressure checks, timely medication, and a balanced diet can significantly control this serious illness. Given the rising incidence of hypertension, awareness and discipline are the best defenses.