Theme: "Controlling Hypertension Together: check your blood pressure regularly, defeat the silent killer”

World Hypertension Day is observed every year on 17 May and forms part of Hypertension Awareness Month. It aims to raise global awareness about high blood pressure, promote prevention, detection, and control, and encourage action at individual, community, and health-system levels.

Hypertension remains the leading preventable cause of premature death worldwide. An estimated 1.4 billion people live with hypertension globally. Despite the availability of effective and affordable treatments, many people are unaware of their condition, and only about one in four people with hypertension have their blood pressure adequately controlled.

Why this matters

Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms but significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and premature death. Early detection, regular monitoring, and sustained treatment can prevent most hypertension-related complications.

The theme of this year’s WHO World Hypertension Day, "Controlling Hypertension Together: check your blood pressure regular, defeat the silent killer” is a shared responsibility, requiring action from individuals, families, communities, health professionals, and health systems.

Key messages

• Check your blood pressure: Regular blood pressure measurement is the first step to prevention and control. Everyone should know their blood pressure values.
• Hypertension can be prevented and controlled: Healthy diets, physical activity, avoiding tobacco, reducing alcohol intake, and appropriate medication can significantly reduce risk.
• Early detection saves lives: Most people with hypertension are unaware they have it. Screening and routine measurement are essential.
• Treatment works: Affordable, effective treatments are widely available and can prevent serious complications when taken consistently.
• Control requires long-term care: Hypertension management is lifelong and depends on sustained access to care, medicines, and follow-up.
• Equity matters: Strengthening primary health care and ensuring access to diagnosis and treatment are critical to reducing disparities.

Call to action

World Hypertension Day provides an opportunity to:

• Increase public awareness and understanding of hypertension
• Promote routine blood pressure measurement in communities and health facilities
• Support health systems to strengthen hypertension detection, treatment, and long-term control
• Empower individuals to take an active role in managing their blood pressure

Raising awareness, sharing knowledge, and supporting sustained action can create lasting change for everyone affected by hypertension.

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Źródło: RAK Exa Editorial Beats