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Source: The post is based on the article “Silent killer – India must get more people to keep blood pressure under control” published in The Hindu on 22nd September 2023.
Syllabus: GS 2 – Issues Related to Health
Relevance: concerns with hypertension
News: Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first report on hypertension.
What are the key findings of the report?
Globally: Hypertension is a global issue, affecting one in three individuals, and it is often inadequately controlled in four out of five cases.
This highlights the lack of effective measures taken by countries to manage this major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes.
Uncontrolled blood pressure, even below 140/90, is risky, especially for people with diabetes, obesity, and habits like tobacco and alcohol use.
India: In India, the WHO report from 2019 data shows that 188 million adults aged 30-79 have hypertension, but only 37% are diagnosed, 30% are treated, and just 15% have their hypertension under control.
Women seem to have slightly better rates of diagnosis, treatment, and control compared to men.
Stroke rates in India are high, with a fatality rate of 18%-42%. In 2019, heart attacks were the top cause of death and disability in the country.
Must Read: WHO releases report on global impact of high BP
What are the reasons behind rising hypertension cases in India?
Research indicates that consuming more than five grams of salt daily is linked to 17%-30% of hypertension cases.
Although member States are obligated to achieve a 30% reduction in average population salt intake by 2025, India has not fully adopted the WHO’s recommendations to reduce salt consumption.
A 2021 study in four Indian States found high salt and sugar levels in packaged foods, highlighting the importance of mandatory front-of-pack nutrition labels, food reformulation to reduce salt, and public awareness efforts.
What steps has India undertaken to address hypertension?
India has made progress in managing hypertension through the India Hypertension Control Initiative (IHCI).
As of March 2021, 48% of patients at primary health centers and 55% at health wellness centers achieved blood pressure control under this program.
Hence, expanding this initiative and maintaining effective blood pressure control should be the essential goals.
