Non-communicable diseases in spotlight as state faces surge in hypertension cases

While a lot of attention is paid to communicable diseases, non-communicable illnesses are often overlooked, even though a significant portion of the disease burden occurs because of these.

Dr Kataria shared that in an effort to address the growing burden of non-communicable diseases, the Punjab Health Department recently launched a month-long awareness and screening campaign to mark World Hypertension Day.

“Hypertension has become one of the most prevalent and dangerous non-communicable diseases in the region. It is a silent killer and continues to be a major public health challenge and the most prevalent non-communicable disease,” said Dr Kataria.

The department launched state-wide blood pressure screening drives, community-level awareness activities and health education campaigns. These activities were held at primary health centres (PHCs), community health centres (CHCs), government hospitals, Anganwadi centres and workplaces. The department is also leveraging the health and wellness centres under the Ayushman Bharat Programme to offer free screenings, consultations and lifestyle counselling, said he.

Dr Kataria said understanding blood pressure was very important. “It is a common condition that affects the body’s arteries. If you have high blood pressure, the force of the blood pushing against the artery walls is consistently very high. The heart has to work harder to pump blood,” he said.

Usually, hypertension is defined as blood pressure above 140/90 mmHg, and it is considered severe if the pressure is above 180/120 mmHg.

“If left untreated, hypertension can silently damage the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes. Untreated, high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and other serious health problems. It’s important to have your blood pressure checked at least every two years, starting at age 18. Some people need more frequent checks,” cautioned he.

Sharing further he said the most worrying part of hypertension was that most people with high blood pressure had no symptoms, even if their readings reached dangerously high levels.

“Some may experience headaches, shortness of breath and nosebleeds, but these usually don’t occur until the blood pressure has reached a severe or life-threatening stage,” he said.

There are two types of hypertension. Primary hypertension develops gradually over the years and has no identifiable cause. Secondary hypertension appears suddenly and may be caused by kidney disease, adrenal gland tumours, thyroid problems or by the use of certain drugs. Drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines, and heart defects can also lead to secondary hypertension.

Lifestyle choices are a significant contributor. Sedentary lifestyle, obesity, stress, high intake of salt and a poor diet are some of the major causes of the disease. While factors like genetics and age are non-modifiable, lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk and help manage the condition.

To keep hypertension at bay, one should avoid consumption of excessive salt and fried or spicy food, exercise regularly, quit smoking, regulate the consumption of alcohol and maintain healthy weight. Early detection, regular monitoring, and healthy living are the best weapons against hypertension, says Dr Kataria.

Ludhiana