World observes World Hypertension Day (WHD) on may 17 every year to increase awareness of hypertension, or high blood pressure, and to encourage its detection, prevention, and management. Since 2005, the World Hypertension League (WHL) has been commemorating World Hypertension Day (WHD) and has launched a global awareness campaign on hypertension. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Society of Hypertension (ISH) are the official associations of the WHL.
History of World Hypertension Day
The first attempt, in 2005, had “Awareness of high blood pressure” as its theme. “Treat to goal” was the 2006 topic, with an emphasis on controlling blood pressure. Less than 140/90 mmHg is the recommended blood pressure for the general public, hypertensive individuals without any additional comorbidities, and people with diabetes mellitus or chronic renal disease. These are the cut-off values that Canadian and international authorities propose. “Healthy diet, healthy blood pressure” was the 2007 World Health Day theme. By focusing on such particular subjects, the WHL hopes to promote public understanding of hypertension, its causes, prevention strategies, and factors that contribute to its rising occurrence.
- WHL- World Hypertension League
- WHD-World Hypertension Day
- WHO-World Health Organization
- ISH – International Society of Hypertension (ISH)
Themes of the World Hypertension Day
- 2024: “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer”
The subject aimed to provide information on prevention, identification, and management of hypertension as well as increase public awareness of the condition and its consequences. It also prioritized expanding everyone’s access to high-quality hypertension services.
