Dharamsala hospital launches hypertension awareness drive

Red Ribbon Clubs and Zonal Hospital Dharamsala have launched a comprehensive month-long hypertension awareness campaign, aimed at educating the public on the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring and healthy lifestyle choices.

This year’s theme ‘Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer,’ underscores the vital role of accurate blood pressure monitoring in preventing and managing hypertension — commonly known as a “silent killer”.

Speaking at the campaign launch, Dr Rajesh Guleri, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Kangra, highlighted the urgency of addressing hypertension, a condition that affects nearly 1.13 billion people globally, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Alarmingly, almost half of those affected are unaware of their condition.

“Hypertension is often symptomless and can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure and even vision loss,” Dr Guleri warned. “In Kangra alone, 23 per cent of the population suffers from hypertension, reflecting a concerning upward trend.”

Dr Guleri emphasised, “The good news is that hypertension is both preventable and manageable. Simple lifestyle changes — like reducing salt intake, staying physically active and maintaining a healthy weight — can significantly lower your risk.”

Dr Rajesh Sood, District Health Officer, identified the key risk factors as unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption and chronic stress which contribute to high blood pressure. According to him, if these are left unmanaged, hypertension could lead to life-threatening conditions and could lead to cardiovascular disease, stroke, kidney damage and cognitive decline.

Sood also gave tips on managing hypertension which include eating a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins with limiting salt and processed foods.

The organisers have arranged for camps, rallies, walkathons, marathons, cycle rallies, quiz contests, slogan-writing, painting competitions and street plays through the Red Ribbon Clubs.

Radio talks and social media campaigns to amplify awareness and webinars and training sessions for medical staff will be some of the highlights. CMO Guleri told The Tribune, “Regular monitoring and early lifestyle changes can prevent a lifetime of complications. We encourage everyone to participate in the campaign and contribute to a healthier, more informed community.”