Is Hypertension a Silent Killer Affecting Over 294 Million People in Southeast Asia?
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Synopsis
Hypertension, known as the silent killer, is a pressing health concern affecting over 294 million people in Southeast Asia. On the eve of World Hypertension Day, the WHO sheds light on the alarming prevalence of this condition and calls for immediate action to combat it. Learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Key Takeaways
- Hypertension affects over 294 million people in Southeast Asia.
- The unmet need for hypertension care is alarmingly high at 88%.
- Major risk factors include tobacco, alcohol, and unhealthy diets.
- Initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles are essential in combating hypertension.
- Collaboration among health programs is crucial for tackling related non-communicable diseases.
New Delhi, May 16 (NationPress) Hypertension, commonly referred to as high blood pressure, is a significant health threat impacting over 294 million individuals in the Southeast Asia region, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO) this Friday, in anticipation of World Hypertension Day.
Annually held on May 17, World Hypertension Day aims to increase awareness regarding hypertension and its severe health implications.
The theme for this year is "measure your blood pressure accurately, control it, live longer", underscoring the necessity for consistent and precise blood pressure assessments.
“Hypertension remains a critical public health issue -- a silent killer impacting over 294 million people in the WHO South-East Asia Region,” stated Saima Wazed, WHO's Regional Director for South-East Asia.
She further noted, “Behavioural risk factors that can be modified, such as tobacco and alcohol consumption, excessive salt intake, lack of physical activity, poor dietary habits, and mental stress, are contributing significantly to its prevalence.”
Wazed highlighted that this condition is a leading factor in premature deaths due to heart attacks and strokes in Southeast Asia.
In India alone, more than 220 million people are living with hypertension, impacting nearly one in three adults.
Concerningly, Wazed mentioned that the unmet need, defined as the disparity between those diagnosed with high blood pressure and those receiving proper treatment and management, remains alarmingly high at 88 percent.
“This signifies that 9 out of 10 individuals with hypertension are not receiving adequate care,” the Regional Director emphasized.
She urged for more vigorous efforts and initiatives advocating for healthy eating, physical activity, controlling tobacco and alcohol use, and reducing salt and trans-fat intake.
Moreover, enhancing collaboration among health programs—including maternal and child health, mental health, and infectious disease services—is vital for addressing hypertension and related non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
“With determined political commitment, community involvement, and innovative strategies, we can alleviate the burden of hypertension and move closer to our global objective of decreasing premature mortality from non-communicable diseases by one-third by 2030,” Wazed concluded.
Point of View
I recognize the critical importance of addressing hypertension. With millions affected, it is our responsibility to spread awareness and encourage preventive measures. Through education and community initiatives, we can combat this silent killer and promote healthier lifestyles across the nation.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hypertension?
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a medical condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high, posing serious health risks.
How many people are affected by hypertension in Southeast Asia?
Over 294 million individuals are affected by hypertension in the Southeast Asia region.
What are the risk factors for hypertension?
Modifiable risk factors include tobacco and alcohol use, high salt intake, lack of physical activity, unhealthy diets, and mental stress.
What can be done to manage hypertension?
Regular blood pressure monitoring, maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in physical activity, and reducing salt and alcohol intake are essential for managing hypertension.
What is the goal for reducing non-communicable diseases by 2030?
The global goal is to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases by one-third by the year 2030.
