Hypertension Affects 42% of Pakistani Adults, Cardiologists Say
Cardiologists have raised concerns over the prevalence of high blood pressure in Pakistan, estimating that around 42 percent of adults in the country are affected by hypertension.
Doctors emphasized the importance of regular blood pressure checks and timely medical care to help reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.
The observations were shared during more than 50 health screening camps organized in 19 cities across Pakistan on the occasion of World Heart Day. More than 10,000 adults underwent blood pressure screening at the camps.
High Blood Pressure Often Has No Clear Symptoms
Health experts noted that hypertension is common worldwide and can develop without obvious warning signs.
Persistently elevated blood pressure, if left untreated, can gradually affect important organs, including the heart, blood vessels, brain and kidneys.
Doctors stressed that regular screening at community and primary healthcare facilities can help identify high blood pressure at an earlier stage.
They also clarified that one elevated blood pressure reading does not necessarily confirm hypertension. A proper diagnosis generally requires repeated measurements along with a clinical assessment.
Major Risk Factors for Heart Disease
Cardiologists identified several preventable factors that can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in Pakistan. These include:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Unhealthy eating habits
- Lack of physical activity
Doctors said conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol can often be identified before a person experiences a serious cardiovascular event. Regular checkups can therefore help people understand their risk and seek appropriate medical advice.
NICVD Associate Professor of Electrophysiology Dr Ghazala Irfan encouraged people to adopt healthier habits and regularly monitor important cardiovascular risk factors.
PIMS Cardiac Centre Director Dr Fazal Aziz Mian also highlighted the importance of prevention, screening and timely medical care, while PIMS consultant cardiologist Dr Syed Nasir Ali Shah called for greater public awareness and more active lifestyles.
Health Screening Camps Held Across Pakistan
The screening camps were organized by Getz Pharma in 19 cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Multan, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Sukkur and Quetta.
People who recorded elevated blood pressure readings during the camps were advised to undergo further medical evaluation and maintain regular follow-up where necessary.
Awareness walks and educational sessions were also organized at several healthcare facilities, including Mayo Hospital Lahore, Sheikh Zayed Hospital Rahim Yar Khan and Faisalabad Institute of Cardiology.
Doctors advised the public to reduce excessive salt intake, avoid tobacco, maintain a balanced diet and remain physically active. They also recommended regular checks of blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
New Initiatives for Hypertension Awareness
Getz Pharma has launched the PREACH initiative to promote national hypertension guidelines at the primary healthcare level. As part of the initiative, more than 450 general practitioners are being trained across Pakistan.
The company is also conducting the PAK-SEHAT study in collaboration with cardiologists to develop local data on cardiovascular risk factors and help identify people who may be at increased risk before serious heart-related problems develop.
Doctors emphasized that regular screening and healthy lifestyle choices can play an important role in reducing cardiovascular risks and improving overall heart health.
