‘Know Your Numbers’ to control BP

Hyderabad: World Hypertension Day (WHD) is observed on May 17 every year to raise awareness on Hypertension and World Hypertension League (WHL) ensures its observation world over. The theme of WHD is ‘Know Your Numbers’ with an aim to increase awareness on high blood pressure.

The numbers defining hypertension have changed from 140/90 to 130/80

The theme being pertinent considering that only 50 per cent of those with hypertension are aware of their condition. In certain communities the awareness is as dismally low as 10 per cent of those who are diagnosed, less than half are treated and only a small percentage achieve normal BP levels.

Briefing media on the eve of World Hypertension Day, Padmashri recipient Dr C Venkata S Ram, said that India is being dubbed as the 'Hypertension Capital' of the world and it has become India’s number one killer. High blood pressure affects both genders and people of all ages. He said that high blood pressure causes no symptoms until the damage is done. ‘It is a silent killer’. It  can be easily detected, easily diagnosed, easily treated and easily controlled.

Dr Ram said that according to the report by the national institute of nutrition 39 per cent men and 29 per cent of women have high blood pressure in Telangana. Medak district has the dubious distinction with high levels of blood pressure in the populace, he added.

Unfortunately, high BP is striking young individuals in our city, the condition is turning alarming and a cause for great concern. If we don’t take care of this immediately, the young are at a risk of stroke/paralysis, heart attack, and kidney failure. BP should be checked even in the young at schools, colleges, work place, IT industry, etc. The trend of high BP in the young is extremely serious and requires urgent attention.

According to Dr Ram, the definition of hypertension has changed this year. Any blood pressure more than 130/80 is considered hypertension. Previously high blood pressure was applicable only if the blood pressure is more than 140/90. Now, the new definition of hypertension is a blood pressure is 130/80 or more. India should be ready for this new definition, he adds.