World Hypertension Day is observed globally each year to raise awareness about high blood pressure and the importance of maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. The theme for World Hypertension Day 2025 is “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer!”—a call to action encouraging people to monitor their blood pressure regularly and take preventive steps to reduce long-term health risks.
Why High Blood Pressure Is Called the Silent Killer
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is more prevalent today than ever before. Often termed a “silent killer,” it usually shows no symptoms until it causes significant damage to vital organs. Persistent high blood pressure puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels, leading to serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and vision problems.
- “High BP or hypertension affects the heart and causes damage to other organs like the brain, kidneys, eyes, etc. Generally, a blood pressure of 130/80 mm Hg or higher is considered hypertension,” said Dr. Shovana Vaishnavi, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Noida to NDTV
Dr. Vaishnavi also emphasized the potential complications of uncontrolled hypertension.
Hypertension Complications: What High Blood Pressure Can Do to Your Body
1. Artery Damage
Chronic high blood pressure can damage artery walls, leading to atherosclerosis, a condition where fatty deposits narrow or block arteries. This raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
2. Heart Damage
Hypertension increases the risk of coronary artery disease, causing narrowed arteries and reduced blood flow to the heart. This may result in angina (chest pain) or heart failure as the heart becomes overworked and weakened.
3. Brain Damage
Reduced blood flow to the brain due to hypertension can cause transient ischemic attacks (mini-strokes) or full strokes. It can also lead to cognitive decline and dementia over time.
“High BP can cause stroke, which occurs due to inadequate oxygen and nutrient supply to the brain, or from bleeding in or around the brain,” added Dr. Vaishnavi.
4. Kidney Damage
The kidneys rely on healthy blood vessels to filter waste. High blood pressure can damage these vessels, potentially leading to chronic kidney disease or even kidney failure.
5. Eye Damage
Hypertension can damage the delicate blood vessels in the retina, leading to hypertensive retinopathy. If left uncontrolled, this condition may cause blurred vision, headaches, and in severe cases, permanent vision loss.
How to Prevent and Manage High Blood Pressure
The good news is that hypertension is preventable and manageable. With the right lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce your risk:
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Reduce salt intake to help lower blood pressure.
- Exercise regularly, aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.
- Limit alcohol, avoid tobacco, and manage stress effectively.
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly, especially if you have risk factors such as age, family history, or obesity.