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New Delhi, May 17, 2025 – Hypertension, often dubbed the “silent killer,” is now impacting more than 294 million people across Southeast Asia, according to a recent statement from the World Health Organization (WHO). The alarming figures were released ahead of World Hypertension Day, observed annually on May 17 to raise awareness about the dangers and complications of high blood pressure.
This year’s theme, “Measure your blood pressure accurately, control it, live longer,” underscores the importance of regular and precise monitoring to prevent the severe health consequences associated with hypertension.
A Growing Public Health Crisis
Saima Wazed, Regional Director for WHO South-East Asia, highlighted the gravity of the situation: “Hypertension continues to be a major public health challenge – a silent killer that affects over 294 million people across the WHO South-East Asia Region.” She pointed out that modifiable behavioral risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol use, high salt intake, physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, and mental stress are driving the high prevalence of the condition.
The consequences are dire, with hypertension remaining a leading cause of premature deaths from heart attacks and strokes in the region.
India at the Epicenter
India faces a particularly severe burden, with over 220 million individuals living with hypertension-nearly one in every three adults. Even more concerning is the “unmet need” in hypertension care: a staggering 88% of those affected are not adequately diagnosed, treated, or controlled. “This indicates that 9 out of every 10 people with hypertension are not receiving optimal care,” Wazed noted.
Call for Urgent Action
In response to these statistics, WHO is urging governments and communities to intensify initiatives that promote healthy diets, physical activity, and the reduction of tobacco, alcohol, salt, and trans-fat consumption. Wazed also emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between health programs, including those focused on maternal and child health, mental health, and infectious diseases, to tackle hypertension and related noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
“With strong political will, community engagement, and innovative approaches, we can reduce the burden of hypertension and move closer to achieving our global goal of reducing premature mortality from noncommunicable diseases by one-third by 2030,” Wazed concluded.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information provided by the World Health Organization and reported by Yes Punjab News. It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. For diagnosis or treatment of any health condition, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
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