Silent Hypertension: A Global Epidemic Affecting One in Three Adults
One of the most common, deadly, and paradoxically invisible diseases.

By: Alejandra Legarda R.

One in three adults worldwide lives with high blood pressure (hypertension) without knowing it. This condition—often called “the silent killer”—rarely shows clear symptoms, yet it can lead to severe complications such as heart attacks, strokes, or kidney failure if left undiagnosed and untreated.

Blood pressure refers to the force that blood exerts on the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps. It’s measured using two values: systolic pressure (when the heart contracts) and diastolic pressure (when the heart relaxes). According to the World Health Organization, normal readings should be below 120/80 mmHg. A consistent reading above 140/90 mmHg is considered hypertension.

The causes of hypertension are multifactorial: genetic predisposition, physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, excessive salt intake, chronic stress, and poor nutrition all contribute. While it is more common after age 40, it is increasingly affecting younger people, especially in urban environments.

A key tool for prevention and management is diet. The well-known DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) has proven effective in multiple clinical studies. It emphasizes high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and low-fat dairy, while reducing sodium, red meat, and processed foods.

Health experts recommend routine blood pressure screenings, even for seemingly healthy individuals. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity (like 30 minutes of walking per day), limiting alcohol, and reducing caffeine and salt intake are all strongly advised.

While hypertension may not always be curable, it is manageable. With proper medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and consistent monitoring, people with high blood pressure can lead long and healthy lives. Ignoring it, however, can lead to irreversible consequences.

Knowing your blood pressure is knowing your risk. In the fight against hypertension, awareness and prevention remain our most powerful tools.