Hypertension, the 'Silent Killer': Doctor Stresses Need for Treatment

Hypertension, often termed the 'silent killer,' poses a significant and insidious threat to public health in Romania, as it does globally. Dr. Gabriela Partene, a leading cardiologist at MedLife Timișoara, emphasizes the critical importance of early detection and specialized evaluation to manage this condition effectively. The disease frequently develops without overt symptoms, or with only non-specific signs, yet it silently inflicts irreversible damage on blood vessels and vital organs like the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes.

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It is very important to detect high blood pressure early, as well as to have a specialist evaluation of the disease and cardiovascular risk, in order to establish an optimal therapeutic plan and prevent major complications such as myocardial infarction or stroke.

Alarming statistics reveal the widespread prevalence of hypertension in Romania. Data from the Romanian Society of Cardiology indicates that approximately 46% of adults have high blood pressure, with men being more affected at 51%. Worryingly, the condition is increasingly impacting younger demographics: one in seven Romanians aged 18-24 have hypertension, a figure that rises to one in five for those aged 25-34, and one in three for those aged 35-44. By the 45-54 age bracket, nearly half the population is hypertensive.

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Hypertension is defined by the persistent increase in pressure in the arteries above the values of 140 mmHg (systolic pressure) and/or 90 mmHg (diastolic pressure).

Dr. Partene defines hypertension as a persistent elevation of arterial pressure above 140 mmHg systolic and/or 90 mmHg diastolic, aligning with the European Society of Cardiology's 2024 guidelines. Given the often asymptomatic nature of the disease, periodic blood pressure monitoring is presented as the sole reliable method for detection. The medical community strongly recommends regular screenings: at least once every three years for adults under 40, and annually for those over 40. Proper home measurement techniques, using validated devices and adhering to specific protocols, are also detailed to ensure accurate readings and facilitate timely medical intervention.

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To measure blood pressure correctly at home, it is recommended that the patient use a clinically validated electronic device with an arm cuff of adequate size.