World Hypertension Day is an international awareness day observed annually on May 17 to draw attention to the health problems caused by hypertension and to inform the public about the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease. Hypertension is characterized by chronically elevated blood pressure and can progress silently over time without noticeable symptoms.
Blood Pressure Measurement (Anadolu Ajansı)
History
World Hypertension Day was established to highlight preventable diseases caused by high blood pressure, particularly stroke, heart attack, and kidney diseases. Celebrated every year on May 17, the day is organized by international health organizations and national health authorities to raise awareness of hypertension, conduct screening, and provide educational activities.
Purpose and Scope
The primary purpose of World Hypertension Day is to emphasize the early diagnosis and control of hypertension, reduce the risk of complications, and create public awareness. The day aims to implement a comprehensive awareness campaign through educational programs, screening campaigns, and support for treatment services organized by health authorities, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations.
Definition of Hypertension and Risk Factors
Hypertension is defined as a systolic blood pressure of 140 mmHg and/or a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg or higher. Although the disease often remains asymptomatic, symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, chest pain, tinnitus, shortness of breath, blurred vision, and irregular heartbeats may occur. Risk factors for hypertension include genetic predisposition, age, sex, obesity, diabetes, tobacco and alcohol use, stress, insufficient physical activity, and unhealthy dietary habits. Blood pressure may also rise in specific conditions such as pregnancy.
Global Situation
A large number of people worldwide live with hypertension, which is a significant risk factor for severe health issues such as stroke, heart attack, kidney disease, and diabetes. Globally, awareness of hypertension is limited; only a portion of affected individuals are diagnosed, fewer receive treatment, and an even smaller proportion achieve effective blood pressure control. The World Health Organization has developed various global programs and technical packages to increase awareness of hypertension and ensure early diagnosis and effective management.
Situation in Türkiye
In Türkiye, the prevalence of hypertension among the population aged 15 and over was 18.3% in 2023, with prevalence increasing with age. Hypertension accounts for 3.2% of deaths in the country. National hypertension management programs include the "Prevention and Control Program for Cardiovascular Diseases" and the "Türkiye Kidney Diseases Prevention and Control Program." Within the Disease Management Platform (Hastalık Yönetim Platformu - HYP), family physicians play a key role in early diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of chronic diseases, providing protocol-based follow-up and treatment for hypertension patients. Between July 2021 and March 2025, 278,000 individuals screened through the HYP-Hypertension Module were diagnosed with hypertension, and 82% of regularly monitored patients achieved controlled blood pressure levels.【1】
Prevention and Control Recommendations
Hypertension is a preventable and treatable disease. Lifestyle modifications are recommended to maintain blood pressure within normal limits. These include healthy nutrition, adequate water intake, reduced salt and trans fat consumption, regular physical activity, maintenance of ideal body weight, and avoidance of tobacco and alcohol use. Individuals diagnosed with hypertension are advised to follow medical guidance for medication use and regularly monitor their blood pressure.
Hypertension Monitoring and Screening
Early diagnosis and effective treatment are critical for preventing complications of hypertension. Regular blood pressure measurements are recommended for both adults and children. Screening for hypertension in children should begin from the age of three. Screening programs and periodic health check-ups enable early detection and monitoring of hypertension, thereby reducing the risk of complications.
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