Hypertension is emerging as a widespread health concern in Jammu and Kashmir, as fresh data from the National Family Health Survey-5 highlights troubling trends in blood pressure levels across the population. According to the report, only 36% of women and 31% of men in the region have normal blood pressure. This means that the majority are either already experiencing hypertension or are on the threshold, classified as pre-hypertensive. Pre-hypertension itself is a serious concern. It indicates elevated blood pressure that has not yet reached hypertensive levels but is high enough to pose long-term health risks. In Jammu and Kashmir, 57% of people are currently in this stage, suggesting that over half of the population is at risk of developing hypertension if lifestyle changes and preventive measures are not taken. The likelihood of having high blood pressure increases with age. The data show that among adolescents aged 15 to 19, 3% are hypertensive. This number rises gradually with each age group, reaching 24% in the 45–49 age range. Similarly, the percentage of individuals with normal blood pressure drops drastically from about 60% in younger people to a mere 17% among older adults. This trend illustrates a gradual decline in cardiovascular health as people age, with the risks compounding over time. Urban populations are slightly more affected, with 10.3% of women in urban areas living with hypertension compared to 9.7% in rural areas. The difference is small but consistent, indicating that lifestyle factors associated with urban living may contribute to higher risk. Men in both rural and urban regions show a similar distribution, reinforcing that the condition is not restricted to any single demographic or locality. The data further breaks down hypertension into stages. Among women, 7% are in Stage 1, 1% in Stage 2, and less than 1% in Stage 3. Around 0.3% of women are on medication even though they currently show normal readings. This suggests that some individuals are under treatment and possibly managing their condition effectively. Among men, the numbers are slightly higher in the earlier stages, with 8% in Stage 1, 1% in Stage 2, and 0.2% in Stage 3. Like the women surveyed, some men are also on medication while maintaining normal readings. Hypertension is more than just a number on a blood pressure monitor. It increases the risk of heart disease, kidney damage, and neurological disorders. In many cases, it progresses without symptoms, which is why it is often referred to as a silent threat. Left unchecked, it can lead to serious, irreversible complications or even premature death. The root causes of this growing problem include a sedentary lifestyle, poor dietary habits, excessive use of salt, smoking and being overweight. These risk factors are increasingly common across various segments of society and are becoming embedded in daily routines. Medical professionals recommend routine health check-ups and encourage people to make sustainable changes to their lifestyle. This includes consuming a balanced diet, increasing physical activity, managing stress, and avoiding harmful substances. Early detection and consistent monitoring can help reduce the impact of hypertension.
Pressure Rising
