Yeusvi Flores: High blood pressure, the silent enemy

High blood pressure is one of the most common, silent, and dangerous chronic diseases in the world. It is estimated that more than 1.3 billion people suffer from it globally.

This condition doesn't usually present symptoms in its early stages, but if not detected and controlled early, it can lead to life-threatening complications such as heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and even vision loss. Forty-five percent of people with hypertension are unaware of their condition, which delays diagnosis and timely treatment.

According to the National Institute of Public Health (INSP), more than 526,000 new officially registered cases were identified in Mexico in 2024. The most prevalent age group is 60 to 69 years, but the increase in younger people, especially those between 30 and 45, is also a cause for concern.

High blood pressure occurs when the force exerted by blood against the artery walls is persistently high. Hypertension is defined as a condition when the systolic pressure exceeds 140 mmHg (the high value) or diastolic pressure exceeds 90 mmHg (the low value). It can be primary (essential), when there is no identifiable cause and is usually related to hereditary factors and lifestyle, or secondary, when it is associated with other medical conditions such as kidney disease, hormonal disorders, or the use of certain medications.

Being overweight or obese, a diet high in salt (sodium), a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and chronic stress are considered risk factors for developing this disease.

Sustained hypertension progressively damages vital organs. This is known as end-organ damage, resulting in myocardial infarction (heart attack), cerebrovascular accident (stroke), chronic kidney failure, hypertensive retinopathy, aneurysms, and peripheral arterial disease.

The only reliable way to detect hypertension is to regularly measure blood pressure. Fortunately, hypertension is preventable and controllable in most cases through lifestyle changes. When lifestyle changes aren't enough, your doctor may prescribe antihypertensive medications.

High blood pressure is a silent but deadly condition if left untreated. The good news is that with education, healthy habits, and timely medical care, it can be prevented or kept under control, thus reducing the risk of serious complications.

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