World Hypertension Day: WHO calls hypertension a ‘silent killer’

On the occasion of World Hypertension Day, which falls on May 17, World Health Organisation (WHO) has emphasized the urgency of taking proactive steps to counter hypertension among the masses. This includes scaling up hypertension services that will help patients dealing with this health problem. Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, Regional Director of WHO Southeast Asia Region, says, “Hypertension is often called a ‘silent killer’ as many people are unaware of their problem which, if left untreated, can lead to disability, poor quality of life or even a deadly heart attack or stroke.”  

Hypertension, which is primarily caused by stress, is known to be a single-biggest factor behind cardiovascular problems in most people. As a matter of fact, 25% of the entire adult population in Southeast Asia suffers from hypertension. An unhealthy diet is another core reason behind this issue that often goes unnoticed. The lack of awareness regarding hypertension has driven health institutions around the world to celebrate May 17 as World Hypertension Day, wherein medical experts share more facts about the same and advise ways to counter it.