Experts warn hypertension causes 400,000 deaths annually in Pakistan

Health experts have warned that high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, has become a major public health challenge in Pakistan, contributing to hundreds of thousands of deaths each year.

Speaking as the chief guest at an awareness seminar and panel discussion organised by the Dow Institute of Cardiology on World Hypertension Day, Dow University of Health Sciences Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Jehan Ara Hassan highlighted alarming global and national statistics related to the disease.

She stated that approximately 1.4 billion people worldwide are suffering from hypertension, while around 10 million deaths occur globally each year due to complications linked to high blood pressure. In Pakistan alone, she noted, nearly 400,000 people die annually because of hypertension-related conditions.

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Professor Jehan Ara Hassan emphasised that uncontrolled blood pressure can lead to severe and life-threatening complications, including stroke, heart disease, kidney failure, and vision impairment. She stressed the importance of early detection, regular monitoring, and lifestyle changes to reduce risks.

She also shared that Dow University has developed a plan to convert more than 100 laboratory collection units in Karachi into primary healthcare centres. These facilities will provide screening, monitoring, and treatment services for patients suffering from high blood pressure, making healthcare more accessible at the community level.

During the seminar, other speakers highlighted that around 33 million people in Pakistan are currently living with hypertension. However, only about 12% of patients have their blood pressure under control, while nearly 50% remain unaware of their condition.

Experts further warned that uncontrolled hypertension has significantly increased the risk of heart attacks and strokes in the country, calling for urgent public awareness campaigns, better healthcare infrastructure, and preventive strategies to address the growing burden of non-communicable diseases.

They urged citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles, reduce salt intake, exercise regularly, and undergo routine medical check-ups to prevent complications associated with high blood pressure.