Doctors call for lifestyle changes to tackle rising hypertension cases

Patna: Amid rising cases of high blood pressure among younger people, cardiologists in Patna on Saturday urged the public to undergo regular health check-ups, reduce stress and adopt healthier lifestyles, warning that hypertension continues to remain a major but often unnoticed health threat.

The appeal was made at a press conference organised by the Cardiological Society of India, Bihar chapter, ahead of World Hypertension Day. Doctors stressed the importance of early detection, routine monitoring and timely treatment to prevent serious complications such as heart attack, stroke and kidney damage.

Former IGIMS head Dr B.P. Singh said a random blood pressure screening of 5,000 people conducted in a single day revealed that nearly 34% were suffering from hypertension. He said the condition often develops without visible symptoms, making it a “silent killer”.

Cardiologist Dr Shamshad Alam of Jai Prabha Medanta said nearly 27% to 34% of the adult population suffers from hypertension. He clarified that the adult category includes people above 15 years of age, indicating an alarming rise among the younger population.

Doctors also addressed fears among patients regarding lifelong medication and possible side effects. Dr Sanjeev Kumar, president of the Cardiological Society of India, Bihar chapter, said medicines may not always be necessary if blood pressure can be controlled through lifestyle changes. “However, medication should be taken under proper medical supervision when required,” he said. He also pointed to increasing cases of sudden heart attacks and deaths after Covid.

Dr V B Bharti warned that uncontrolled blood pressure can severely damage vital organs, especially kidneys, and said the risks are far greater than the side effects of medicines.

Dr Sandeep Kumar of IGIC advised people to remain relaxed before checking blood pressure and avoid tea or coffee immediately beforehand for accurate readings.

Experts, including Dr Ashok Kumar, Dr Arvind Kumar and Dr Vineet Kumar, advised people to reduce salt intake, maintain healthy body weight, sleep properly and undergo routine check-ups.