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1.4 billion people lived with hypertension in 2024 with only one in five having it under control either through medication or addressing the issues, according to World Health Organisation (WHO) second Global hypertension report released on September 23. 

Hypertension is a leading cause of heart attack, stroke, chronic kidney disease, and dementia. It is both preventable and treatable – but without urgent action, millions of people will continue to die prematurely, and countries will face mounting economic losses. 

Only 28% of low-income countries report that all WHO-recommended hypertension medicines are available in pharmacies or primary care facilities.

"Every hour, over 1000 lives are lost to strokes and heart attacks from high blood pressure, and most of these deaths are preventable," WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. "Countries have the tools to change this narrative. With political will, ongoing investment, and reforms to embed hypertension control in health services, we can save millions and ensure universal health coverage for all," he said.

From 2011 to 2025, cardiovascular diseases–including hypertension–are projected to cost low- and middle-income countries approximately US$ 3.7 trillion, equivalent to around 2% of their combined GDP.

“Uncontrolled high blood pressure claims more than 10 million lives every year, despite being both preventable and treatable. Countries that integrate hypertension care into universal health coverage and primary care are making progress, but many low-and middle-income countries are still left behind,” Dr Kelly Henning, who leads the Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Health Programme said. 

The report was released at an event co-hosted by WHO, Bloomberg Philanthropies, and Resolve to Save Lives, during the 80th United Nations General Assembly.

Strong policies that raise awareness and expand access to treatment can help reduce cardiovascular disease.

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