World Hypertension Day observed on May 17

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  World Hypertension Day observed on May 17

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1. Hypertension is a primary risk factor for cardiovascular disease which cause a range of health problems such as strokes, vision loss, dementia, heart attacks and chronic kidney disease. Another name of Hypertension is high blood pressure. It is also known as the 'Silent Killer' as it often does not exhibit any symptoms during its early stages. 
2. According to statistics, it has been estimated that nearly 1 billion people are affected by hypertension worldwide, and nearly one-half of this population are unaware of their condition. This figure is predicted to increase to 1.5 billion by 2025. Therefore, since 2005, around the globe, World Hypertension Day is celebrated every year to raise awareness about the silent killer.
3. The guidelines lower the threshold for hypertension from systolic BP 140 mm Hg/diastolic BP 90 mm Hg, and eliminate the category of pre-hypertension.
4. World Hypertension Day is organised by the World Hypertension League (WHL) which is an umbrella organization. WHL is composed of 85 hypertension societies and leagues from all over the world.
5. Theme - The theme of WHD for the past five years has been 'Know Your Numbers' with the goal of increasing high blood pressure (BP) awareness in all populations around the world. 
6. The World Hypertension Day was first inaugurated in May 2005 ever since it has become an annual event. 
7. Types of Hypertension disease - 1. Primary hypertension; 2. Secondary hypertension
8. Primary hypertension: Primary hypertension is also known as essential hypertension. Most adults with hypertension are in this category. It's thought to be a combination of genetics, diet, lifestyle, and age.Lifestyle factors include smoking, drinking too much alcohol, stress, being overweight, eating too much salt, and not getting enough exercise. Changes in your diet and lifestyle can lower your blood pressure and risk of complications from hypertension.
9. Secondary hypertension: Secondary hypertension is when there's an identifiable- and potentially reversible- cause of your hypertension. Only about 5 to 10 percent of hypertension is the secondary type. It's more prevalent in younger people. An estimated 30 percent of those ages 18 to 40 with hypertension have secondary hypertension.

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