
World Hypertension Day: What you need to know
Marked annually on May 17
Hypertension is a leading cause of heart attack, stroke, chronic kidney disease, and dementia.
In Summary
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1.4 billion people lived with hypertension in 2024, yet just over one in five have it under control either through medication or addressing modifiable health risks.
Hypertension is a leading cause of heart attack, stroke, chronic kidney disease, and dementia.
It is both preventable and treatable – but without urgent action, millions of people will continue to die prematurely, and countries will face mounting economic losses.
From 2011 to 2025, cardiovascular diseases – including hypertension – are projected to cost low- and middle-income countries approximately US$ 3.7 trillion, equivalent to around 2% of their combined GDP.
Marked annually on May 17