Chennai : Internationally, 17th May is observed as World Hypertension Day. According to Global Burden of Disease Study, blood pressure tops the list of risk factors for death and disability globally. In developing nations, around 640 million people suffer from this disease. Hypertension is common around the world and many people are unaware that they suffer from this modern epidemic. It is considered to be a silent killer because it has no obvious symptoms.

Hence this World Hypertension Day, efforts are being focusedso as to improve prevention and control hypertension by creating awareness about the diseases.

Today Indus Health Plus released Healthcare Abnormality Report that revealed hypertension is getting common among the younger generation. The study was conducted in three major metros of India i.e. – Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. It was observed that Bangalore reported highest numbers of hypertension cases (12.8 %) followed by Mumbai (9.40) and Delhi (7.29 %)

In Bangalore it was observed that 1 out of 4 IT professionals are suffering from hypertension. It is alarming that around 31% of IT/ BPO professionals are hypertensive and about 5% have malignant levels of hypertension. 6.9% of females are suffering from hypertension and are considered to be prone to this disease as compared to men. 18% of youngsters between the age group of 20 -25 years and about 23% youngsters in 26 – 30 years reported stage 1 hypertension.

Mumbaikars diagnosed with high BP almost 45% of them are under the risk of stroke and 25 % are at risk of suffering from heart diseases. Male and female in the age bracket of 35 – 50 years have been diagnosed with diabetes and kidney diseases which are increasing hypertension cases.  Obesity is also increasing the risk of high BP in Mumbai.

In New Delhi, 16% of ischemic heart diseases, 21% of peripheral vascular disease and 29% of strokesare attributed to hypertension. Youngsters between the age group of 25 – 30 years are falling prey to this disease. Prevalence of hypertension among obese is high. It was observed that those under the radar of high blood pressure also had diabetes mellitus and 35% of them were under the risk of heart problems.

In the study it was observed that high stress level at office and home are increasing the risk of hypertension. High intake of junk food, no exercise, hectic lifestyle, smoking and alcohol consumption are increasing the risk.

Mr. Amol Naikawadi, Preventive Healthcare Specialist, Indus Health Plus says, “Increasing number of hypertension cases have been observed in younger generation and middle age group. People often tend to ignore symptoms such as headaches and anxiety. While one keeps a watch on such symptoms it is advised to monitor BP quarterly above the age of 35.  Below the age of 35 one should monitor it every 6 months. But if one is already a BP patient then it is mandatory to go for monthly check up.”

“Hypertension if not controlled in time it can cause stroke, heart attack and kidney diseases.  Therefore at Indus Health Plus, our focus on this ‘World Hypertension Day’ is to educate people about this disease and inculcate the importance of preventive healthcare practice amongst masses. Timely and regular check-up can reduce the risk of hypertension” Mr. Naikawadi added.

Source : Sachin Murdeshwar