Kathmandu: World Hypertension Day is being observed today, May 17, 2023, to raise awareness about the importance of controlling high blood pressure. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition in which the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries is too high. This can damage your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.

The theme for World Hypertension Day 2023 is "Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer." This theme emphasizes the importance of getting your blood pressure checked regularly and taking steps to control it if it is high.

There are many things you can do to control your blood pressure, including:

Eating a healthy diet
Exercising regularly
Maintaining a healthy weight
Quitting smoking
Limiting alcohol consumption
Managing stress
If you have high blood pressure, it is important to work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. With proper treatment, you can control your blood pressure and reduce your risk of developing serious health problems.

In Nepal, hypertension is a major public health concern. According to the Nepal Demographic and Health Survey 2016, 17% of women and 23% of men in Nepal have hypertension. The prevalence of hypertension is higher in urban areas than in rural areas.

There are many factors that contribute to the high prevalence of hypertension in Nepal, including:

Changing lifestyle
Stressful days
Increasing consumption of processed food
Lack of awareness about hypertension
The good news is that hypertension is largely preventable. By making lifestyle changes and taking steps to control your blood pressure, you can reduce your risk of developing serious health problems.

If you are concerned about your blood pressure, talk to your doctor. They can help you assess your risk and develop a treatment plan that is right for you.