World Hypertension Day: one in three sufferers, but only half know it
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17 May 2025 is World Hypertension Day, an initiative of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Hypertension League. It is a reminder that high blood pressure is not just a medical term, but one of the leading causes of premature death and disability in the world, especially in Europe.
Arterial hypertension is an insidious disease. It may not show any symptoms for years, but it can cause serious damage to the cardiovascular system. It is hypertension that causes:
- 62% of all strokes;
- almost half of the heart attacks;
- a significant amount of kidney failure.
According to WHO data for 2024, more than a third of people aged 30 to 79 in Europe suffer from hypertension, and only half of them are aware of the diagnosis. Every year, cardiovascular diseases claim 10,000 lives a day in the European region. This represents 42.5 per cent of all deaths.
Hypertension is one of the few chronic diseases that can be effectively controlled and even prevented with lifestyle changes. The main thing is to diagnose it in time. That is why regular blood pressure measurement is the key to prevention.
WHO and national health authorities emphasise: prevention does not require overkill, it consists of simple but consistent steps.
How to protect yourself: 6 main principles of prevention
Stop Smoking. Nicotine is one of the main accelerators of heart rate and vasoconstriction. It raises blood pressure and increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Balance your diet. A diet rich in fruit and vegetables helps to naturally lower blood pressure - thanks to its high potassium content. It's important to avoid ultra-processed foods that are loaded with salt and trans fats. Favour healthy fats such as olive oil and rapeseed oil.
Control your alcohol intake. Even moderate amounts of alcohol can have a negative effect on blood pressure. Less is better.
Monitor your weight. Excess body weight increases stress on the heart and blood vessels. Keep your weight in check through an active lifestyle and a sensible diet.
Move regularly. WHO recommends a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate activity per week or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week for adults. Ideally, 30 minutes a day. For children and adolescents, 60 minutes daily.
Check your blood pressure. Even if you feel fine. See your doctor at least once a year. This is especially important after age 40 or if you have a chronic condition.
Hypertension is not a judgement, but a signal to take action. Most of its complications can be prevented if you learn about the diagnosis in time and adjust your lifestyle. In a world where everything from diet to stress affects health, it is important to remember that your blood pressure is in your hands.
