Geneva — Hypertension continues to pose a significant global health threat, with the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting that over 294 million people are currently affected in the South-East Asia Region alone. Marking the 20th anniversary of World Hypertension Day, observed under the theme “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer!”, the WHO has issued a stark reminder of the urgent need to address this silent killer.

A Leading Cause of Preventable Death

Hypertension remains one of the top contributors to premature deaths worldwide, particularly from heart attacks and strokes. Despite its known risks and manageable nature, a staggering 88% of people with high blood pressure remain undiagnosed, untreated, or inadequately controlled. This means nearly 9 out of 10 individuals are not receiving the care they need—an alarming statistic that reflects gaps in awareness, healthcare infrastructure, and public health strategies.

Lifestyle Risks Continue to Drive Prevalence

The persistence of modifiable risk factors—such as tobacco and alcohol use, high salt intake, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and psychological stress—continues to fuel the rising rates of hypertension. These behaviors, coupled with limited access to routine health check-ups in many low- and middle-income countries, hinder early diagnosis and timely intervention.

WHO Urges Collective Action and Innovation

On this World Hypertension Day 2025, the WHO is calling for stronger political will, increased community engagement, and innovative strategies to tackle the hypertension crisis. Interventions such as national screening programs, public health campaigns, and community-based health education are emphasized as critical tools for driving progress.

“Hypertension is preventable, treatable, and manageable. What we need now is unified action—governments, healthcare providers, and individuals must come together to make regular blood pressure monitoring and control a global health priority,” stated a WHO spokesperson.

Toward the 2030 Global Health Goals

The WHO reiterates its commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of reducing premature mortality from non-communicable diseases by one-third by 2030. Tackling hypertension is a crucial component of this objective. The organization emphasizes that well-coordinated efforts can save millions of lives and reduce the strain on overburdened health systems.

Traditional Medicine Highlighted at WHO Assembly

In related developments, the 78th World Health Assembly is set to spotlight the role of traditional medicine in enhancing healthcare outcomes. The promotion of integrated health approaches may offer additional, culturally tailored strategies for managing conditions like hypertension, especially in regions where access to conventional medical infrastructure is limited.

A Global Call to Action

As nations mark World Hypertension Day 2025, the message from health experts is clear: regular, accurate blood pressure checks and lifestyle changes are key to living longer, healthier lives. The WHO urges individuals, communities, and policymakers alike to take this opportunity to commit to meaningful action—because hypertension, though silent, need not be deadly.