Hypertension i.e. high blood pressure has become a major problem in India. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) new report ‘Global Report on Hypertension 2025’, more than 21 crore adults (30 to 79 years old) are suffering from the disease in the country. This is more than 30% of the country’s population.
The main figures that raise anxiety
- Number of victims: More than 21 crores.
- lack of information: Only 39% (8.22 crore) people know that they are ill.
- Lack of control: There is no blood pressure control of 83% (17.3 crore). That is, it is controlled in only 17% of patients.
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The problem is dangerous because high BP puts extra pressure on the heart and mind. If there is no timely control, then diseases like heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, eye problem or dementia can occur.
High BP condition around the world
In 2024, 140 million people were suffering from high BP globally. This is the world’s 34% population. But the matter of concern, only 1 out of every 5 people can control it with medicine or lifestyle changes.
The Director General of WHO, Dr. Tedros Adnom Ghebreyasus says that more than 1 000 people are dying of heart and heart diseases related to high BP every hour. These deaths can be stopped. Right policies, investment and better health services can save millions of lives.
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Challenges: Why access to treatment is difficult?
- Out of 195 countries, the control rate in 99 is less than 20%.
- The availability of drugs in poor countries is only 28%, while 93%in rich countries.
- Obstacles: Weak policies (on alcohol, tobacco, salt, trans fat), expensive medicines, lack of doctors, lack of testing equipment and supply chain problems.
Dr. Tom Frieden says that cheap and safe medicines are available, but cannot reach crores of people. Millions of life will be avoided by removing this deficiency. Will save billions of dollars. If not taking steps in time, then between 2011-2025, countries with poor-medium income will lose $ 3.7 trillion (2%of GDP).
Examples of success: hope remains
Some countries did wonders …
- Bangladesh: In 2019-2025, the control rate increased from 15% to 56%.
- Philippines: The heart package of WHO was taken to the villages.
- South Korea: 59% control in 2022 from cheap medicines.
India’s victory: relief from free medicines
India has succeeded in overcoming this problem. From 2018-2019, free generic medicines are being given in government clinics. A limit was imposed on the price of medicines. 80% cheaper medicines from private shops are available at government stores.
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- First: BP control of only 14% of patients.
- Now: Punjab-Maharashtra reached 70-81%. The average systolic BP reduced 15–16 mmhg.
Who’s appeal
- WHO says, include high BP control in every country’s health plan. The right steps will stop millions of deaths and the financial burden will be reduced.
- Take care: Eat healthy food, reduce salt, exercise and get regular BP check. Life will be healthy with timely treatment.
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