- According to WHO, World Hypertension Day was initiated by the World Hypertension League in 2005.
- Early detection and careful management of hypertension are important.
Image: FILE
Image: FILE
World Hypertension Day is observed every year on May 17.
Why it is celebrated
The day helps raise awareness of the prevention, detection and treatment of high blood pressure.
This year's theme is "Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer!".
According to WHO, World Hypertension Day was initiated by the World Hypertension League in 2005.
Early detection and careful management of hypertension are important.
The Ministry of Health reminded Kenyans to prioritize their cardiovascular health by checking their blood pressure, spreading awareness and staying vigilant about heart health.
How to stay healthy
Simple lifestyle modifications: Eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and managing stress can help lower blood pressure.
Know your numbers: Check your blood pressure to understand the risks of high blood pressure.
Early detection: Early detection saves lives. Do regular checkups and get screened for early detection of high blood pressure.
Lifestyle matters: Promote healthy habits by eating a low diet, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol and managing stress.
Medication adherence: If prescribed, take your blood pressure medication regularly as directed by the doctor.
What WHO advocates for
- Reducing hypertension risk factors by implementing WHO Technical packages for tobacco control, salt reduction, elimination of trans-fatty acids, promoting physical activity, and reducing air pollution.
- Accelerating the coverage and management of hypertension within primary healthcare by strengthening interventions outlined in the WHO HEARTS and WHO Package of Essential Noncommunicable Disease interventions.
- Establishing and regularly monitoring national targets and indicators for hypertension, to enhance accountability and track progress towards SEAHEARTS milestones.
- Ensuring convergence of hypertension prevention and management services with other national programs, including maternal and child health, tuberculosis, and HIV programs.
- Empowering communities and individuals for self-care management of hypertension, incorporating measures such as low sodium diets, reducing tobacco and alcohol use, regular physical activity, and conducting periodic blood pressure assessments.
WHO says Improving hypertension prevention and control should be an integral part of every nation's journey towards Universal Health Coverage.
This potentially saves countless lives and carries significant economic advantages and advances progress towards SDG targets.