Dr Tarun Kumar has described hypertension as a “silent killer” and added that India can be called the “hypertension capital of the world”.
Dr ( Prof) Tarun Kumar, Cardiologist, Medanta Heart Center
On the occasion of World Hypertension Day on Sunday, May 17, Dr (Prof) Tarun Kumar, Cardiologist at the Medanta – The Medicity Heart Center, said that an estimated 220 million people in India are living with hypertension, but only around 10 to 12 per cent have their blood pressure adequately controlled.
“Hypertension is a silent killer and India can be called the hypertension capital of the world,” Dr Kumar said. He noted that more than 50 per cent of people with high blood pressure are unaware of their condition.
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Dr Kumar explained that among those diagnosed and started on treatment, nearly half discontinue their medication. Of those who continue treatment, almost 50 per cent still fail to achieve adequate blood pressure control. As a result, only a small fraction of patients are able to maintain blood pressure within recommended limits.
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He warned that uncontrolled hypertension significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and other serious cardiovascular complications.
According to current guidelines, normal blood pressure is defined as less than 120/80 mmHg. Blood pressure readings of 130/80 mmHg or above are considered hypertension and require medical attention.
Dr Kumar emphasized that while medications remain essential for many patients, diet and lifestyle changes play a crucial role in preventing and controlling hypertension.
He has recommended the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating plan, which includes fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, fish, poultry, beans, nuts and seeds.
Further, he has advised limiting sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg per day, with additional benefits when reduced to 1,500 mg, and avoiding foods high in saturated fats and added sugars.
“Regular blood pressure monitoring, adherence to prescribed medication and healthy eating habits are crucial to reducing the growing burden of hypertension in India,” Dr Kumar said.
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