WHO urges regular blood pressure checks, warns of ‘silent’ health threat

The World Health Organization (WHO) is sounding the alarm on high blood pressure, labeling it a "silent threat" that can inflict serious damage on vital organs without any noticeable warning signs. The global health body is strongly advising individuals to monitor their blood pressure regularly and strive to maintain readings below 140/90 mmHg.

In a recent advisory, the WHO emphasized that hypertension often presents no symptoms, yet it can quietly harm the heart, brain, kidneys, and blood vessels. The organization stressed the critical importance of early detection and consistent monitoring to mitigate the risks of heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and other life-threatening complications associated with uncontrolled high blood pressure.

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High blood pressure often has no warning signs, but it can quietly damage your heart, brain, kidneys, and blood vessels. Check your blood pressure regularly, keep track of your readings over time, and aim for a healthy blood pressure below 140/90 mmHg.

"The sooner you know your numbers, the sooner you can take steps to protect your health. Know your numbers. Take control. Stay healthy. Taking action today can help prevent serious health problems tomorrow," the WHO stated. Medical experts concur, referring to hypertension as a "silent killer" because many people live with it for years without realizing it, while it progressively damages internal organs.

Preventative measures and management strategies highlighted by health experts include regular blood pressure checks, a low-salt diet, consistent physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol consumption, and adhering to prescribed medications. The WHO continues to advocate for strengthened awareness campaigns and improved access to blood pressure screening globally, underscoring that early diagnosis and effective management are key to reducing cardiovascular disease-related deaths and disabilities.

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The sooner you know your numbers, the sooner you can take steps to protect your health. Know your numbers. Take control. Stay healthy. Taking action today can help prevent serious health problems tomorrow.