The first-ever report on the devastating global impact of high blood pressure by the World Health Organisation released on Tuesday has shown that approximately four out of every five people with hypertension globally are not adequately treated.

The report showed approximately four out of every five people with hypertension are not adequately treated, but if countries can scale up coverage, 76 million deaths could be averted between 2023 and 2050.

The report revealed that hypertension affects one in three adults worldwide, and the deadly condition leads to stroke, heart attack, heart failure, kidney damage and many other health problems.

It reads, “The number of people living with hypertension (blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg or higher or taking medication for hypertension) doubled between 1990 and 2019, from 650 million to 1.3 billion. Nearly half of people with hypertension globally are currently unaware of their condition. More than three-quarters of adults with hypertension live in low- and middle-income countries.

“Older age and genetics can increase the risk of having high blood pressure, but modifiable risk factors such as eating a high-salt diet, not being physically active and drinking too much alcohol can also increase the risk of hypertension.

“Lifestyle changes like eating a healthier diet, quitting tobacco and being more active can help lower blood pressure. Some people may need medicines that can control hypertension effectively and prevent related complications”, it noted.