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Every year World Hypertension Day is celebrated to increase awareness about high blood pressure. Hypertension is called a silent killer, because it keeps harming the body for a long time without any obvious symptoms. Many people do not realize that their BP is high until serious problems related to heart, brain or kidney arise. This is the reason why it is considered very important to get blood pressure checked regularly and detect it in time.
in today’s time TensionHabits like poor eating habits, lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking and lack of sleep are increasing the cases of high BP. This problem is no longer limited only to the elderly, but is increasingly being seen among the youth as well. In such a situation, it is important to understand how common hypertension is, what doctors advise about it and what things should be kept in mind to keep it under control.
How common is hypertension and why is it becoming a big concern?
World Health Organization (WHO) According to , approximately 1.4 billion people worldwide are affected by high blood pressure. About 44 percent of these people do not even know that they have hypertension. This problem is increasing rapidly in India also. According to NFHS-5 data, about 21.3 percent women and 24 percent men above 15 years of age are affected by high BP.
The biggest concern is that this disease can often persist for years without any obvious symptoms. During this time, it can gradually damage the heart, brain, kidneys and blood vessels. If timely identification and treatment is not done, the risk of serious problems like heart attack, stroke, heart failure and kidney disease can increase significantly. Therefore, experts recommend making regular checkups an important habit.
What do doctors say on regular BP checkup and lifestyle changes?
Dr. Purushottam Lal According to, high BP is no longer a problem only for the elderly. Youth are also being increasingly affected due to stress, poor sleep, obesity, smoking and less physical activity. Dr. R. S. Venkateshulu Says that both family and workplace should encourage regular BP monitoring. Dr. Abhinav Srivastava According to , people should know their BP number just as they know their other important health information.
Doctors believe that it is not right to just wait for the symptoms. Future heart risks can be reduced to a great extent by periodic checkups and lifestyle improvements.
What to do to control hypertension?
Dr. Sanjeev Aggarwal According to, to keep high BP under control, regular checkups, proper adherence to medicines and good lifestyle are very important. Reduce salt in your diet, include fresh fruits and vegetables and avoid processed foods.
Walk or exercise for at least 30 minutes daily, keep your weight under control, get enough sleep and try to reduce stress. It is also important to stay away from smoking, tobacco and excess alcohol. If needed, home BP monitoring and regular follow-up can help in better control in the long run.
