Kolkata, 16 May :
The Association of Physicians of India (API) has raised a red flag over the alarming prevalence of hypertension (HTN) in the country, citing findings from a recent ICMR-INDIAB study that revealed a 35.5% rate of HTN, with urban populations at greater risk than rural ones.
The press release highlights the pressing issue of undiagnosed hypertension, especially in rural areas, where lack of awareness and inadequate measurement are compounding the health burden. Often found alongside comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, chronic kidney disease, and heart failure, HTN significantly raises the risk of fatal complications.
Shockingly, only 25-42% of hypertensive individuals are aware of their condition, and just 11-20% of those on medication achieve target blood pressure levels. As a result, hypertension is responsible for 57% of stroke-related deaths and 24% of coronary heart disease deaths in India.
API calls on the public to take immediate action through simple steps:
Regular BP monitoring
Salt intake restriction to under 4 grams/day
Engaging in physical exercise
Medical consultation and follow-ups
The campaign encourages purchasing only half the usual amount of salt for household use as a first step toward better heart health.
