Hypertension, long recognised as a global health crisis, is increasingly taking a toll on young people in Pakistan. Health experts are urging for stronger awareness campaigns and routine monitoring, as the World Health Organisation estimates that over 1 billion people worldwide are currently living with hypertension, a figure expected to reach 1.5 billion by 2025.
Speaking to a private news channel, a prominent cardiologist highlighted the alarming rise of hypertension cases, especially among the youth. The expert stressed the critical importance of World Hypertension Day, observed on May 17, which aims to raise public awareness and promote prevention and control of this widespread condition.
Referred to as the “silent killer,” hypertension often develops without obvious symptoms, silently contributing to severe cardiovascular complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure.
The expert revealed that in Pakistan, more than 52% of the population is affected by hypertension, yet around 42% remain unaware of the disease and its symptoms. This lack of awareness highlights a significant gap in education and underscores the urgent need for more comprehensive awareness campaigns.
Global data further confirms the severity of the issue, with hypertension consistently ranking as the leading cause of death and disability-adjusted life years worldwide since 1990. Projections indicate that the number of people living with hypertension will increase by up to 20% by 2025.
As the country grapples with this silent epidemic, health professionals are calling for improved public health strategies, including widespread screening and targeted education efforts, to combat the growing threat of hypertension — especially among the nation’s younger population.
