As the world marks World Hypertension Day on Sunday (17/5) under the theme, Controlling Hypertension Together! It emphasises collective action in improving awareness, accurate blood pressure measurement, early detection, treatment, and long-term management of hypertension, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like South Africa.

Hypertension is often referred to as a silent killer because many people experience no symptoms while damage silently occurs within the body.

Elevated blood pressure places ongoing strain on blood vessels, the heart, brain, kidneys, and other organs, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, kidney disease, and vision complications.

The foundation said South Africa continues to face a major challenge, with nearly one in three adults believed to be living with hypertension. However, approximately half of those affected remain undiagnosed.

“Hypertension remains one of the leading causes of heart disease and stroke globally and in South Africa, which is why awareness and early detection are so important,” said HSFSA health promotion and health risk assessment programme team lead Juandre Watson.

“One high blood pressure reading does not automatically mean someone has hypertension, but it should never be ignored and always requires proper follow-up and monitoring.

The good news is many cases of hypertension can be prevented or managed through healthy lifestyle choices, regular screenings, and taking treatment consistently. 

The foundation said many people often confuse high blood pressure with hypertension, even though they are not the same. High blood pressure refers to a blood pressure reading that is temporarily elevated above the normal range.

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps it through the body. A normal blood pressure reading is generally below 120/80mm of mercury.

Hypertension is typically diagnosed when blood pressure readings remain consistently above 140/90 mmHg over multiple assessments conducted by healthcare professionals. The organisation warns that a single high reading should not immediately be regarded as hypertension, but it should also never be ignored.

“We encourage South Africans to take small but sustainable steps towards healthier living, because early detection and healthy lifestyle choices can save lives and reduce the burden of heart disease and stroke,” said Watson.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame dg

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