National Health Fund: 11 million Poles suffer from hypertension

Arterial hypertension, which is one of the main causes of death due to circulatory system diseases, affects 11 million Poles. The problem increasingly affects young adults and even children - reminds the National Health Fund on World Hypertension Day celebrated on May 17.

Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure values ​​exceed 140/90 mmHg in at least two independent measurements.

It may not cause any symptoms for a long time. It is often detected by accident – ​​during a routine visit to the doctor or during diagnostics for other diseases. If left untreated, it leads to irreversible damage to blood vessels, the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes.

90% of cases are primary (essential) hypertension. Its causes are not fully understood. In the remaining cases, secondary hypertension is diagnosed as a result of other diseases, such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, hormonal disorders (e.g. Cushing's syndrome, hyperaldosteronism), aortic stenosis or obstructive sleep apnea.

The National Health Fund pointed out that hypertension is increasingly being diagnosed in young adults and children. The risk increases when there is a family history of circulatory system diseases and a lifestyle based on lack of exercise, an unhealthy diet, excessive stress and stimulants.

"Hypertension often develops without any symptoms, which is why it is sometimes called a silent killer. Many people are unaware of the problem for years until serious complications occur, such as a heart attack or stroke. Regular blood pressure measurements are therefore crucial to detect the disease early and prevent its consequences," emphasized the president of the Polish Cardiac Society, cardiologist Prof. Robert Gil.

Doctors recommend regular blood pressure measurements – not only during doctor visits, but also at home, preferably at a fixed time of day.

A healthy lifestyle plays an important role, i.e. the Mediterranean diet, daily physical activity and limiting salt and stimulants, which significantly increase the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. (PAP)

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