Understanding Hypertension: Insights from Saima Wazed on World Hypertension Day

A Call to Action on World Hypertension Day

On May 17 each year, World Hypertension Day serves as a crucial reminder to prioritize hypertension awareness and management. Officially recognized since its inception, this day aims to enlighten the public about hypertension—the silent killer affecting millions worldwide. As we commemorate its 20th anniversary this year, the theme "Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer!" resonates strongly with a pressing call to action.

The Silent Epidemic

Hypertension, often asymptomatic, affects over 294 million people within the WHO South-East Asia Region alone. This staggering number underscores the urgency of addressing a condition that remains one of the leading contributors to premature mortality from heart disease and strokes. The troubling reality is that the gap between those living with hypertension and those who receive appropriate care is enormous; a shocking 88% of individuals with high blood pressure are inadequately diagnosed, treated, or controlled. This disheartening statistic highlights the critical need for public health programs aimed at improving awareness and care accessibility.

Key Drivers of Hypertension

Several modifiable risk factors contribute significantly to the prevalence of hypertension. Among these are tobacco and alcohol usage, high salt intake, lack of physical activity, unhealthy dietary habits, and mental stress. Understanding and mitigating these risks can dramatically alter the hypertension landscape.

For instance, unhealthy dietary choices—including a diet high in salt and unhealthy fats—can significantly elevate blood pressure levels. Similarly, physical inactivity exacerbates the condition, making it essential to promote exercise as part of a balanced lifestyle. Initiatives to reduce these risk factors are vital in the collective fight against hypertension.

Commitments to Change: SEAHEARTS

The South-East Asia Region has taken significant strides in tackling hypertension through the SEAHEARTS initiative—an acronym for "Accelerating Prevention and Control of Cardiovascular Diseases in the South-East Asia Region." This powerful framework enables countries to implement population-level interventions aimed at reducing tobacco use, decreasing salt consumption, and improving overall treatment coverage in primary health care settings.

Notably, by December 2024, SEAHEARTS aims to manage over 46 million individuals with hypertension through structured protocols in primary health care facilities. This ambitious goal represents an essential step toward bridging the existing gap in hypertension care and ensuring that those in need receive adequate treatment.

Priorities for Member States and Stakeholders

Saima Wazed’s message emphasizes three core areas that require immediate focus and action:

1. Strengthening Risk Factor Reduction

   • To effectively combat the rising tide of hypertension, there must be a concerted effort to promote healthy living. This includes intensifying initiatives that encourage nutritious diets, regular physical activity, and stringent control of tobacco and alcohol use. Strategies to reduce trans-fat and salt consumption also play a crucial role in this effort.

2. Accelerating Integration of SEAHEARTS Approaches in Primary Health Care

   • A vital part of addressing hypertension is ensuring that it is integrated into every level of primary health care. The inclusion of WHO HEARTS technical packages is essential, encompassing healthy lifestyle counseling, standardized treatment protocols, accessible validated blood pressure devices, equitable access to medications, and robust monitoring systems. This comprehensive approach will create a seamless care experience for those affected by hypertension.
3. Integrating Services Across Sectors
   • Hypertension does not exist in isolation; it is often intertwined with other health issues. Strengthening collaboration between various health programs—like maternal and child health, mental health, and infectious disease services—will facilitate a holistic approach to managing hypertension and related noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). This integration ensures a continuous and coordinated care pathway for patients.

The Path Forward

As we observe World Hypertension Day 2025, Wazed’s vision presents a hopeful trajectory. With the right blend of political will, active community engagement, and innovative strategies, we can significantly reduce the burden of hypertension. The collective goal remains clear: to drive down premature mortality from noncommunicable diseases by one-third by 2030.

Saima Wazed’s message serves not only as a wake-up call but as an invitation to unite in our efforts. Let’s channel our energies into building a future where everyone has the chance to live longer, healthier lives—unburdened by the preventable complications of hypertension.