High blood pressure (hypertension) remains a leading cause of premature deaths worldwide, often going unnoticed due to its lack of symptoms. In Chandigarh, 35.5% of adults suffer from hypertension—higher than the national average—while 50% of individuals over 45 are affected, according to local health data.
Excessive salt intake is a key contributor, with 65% of people consuming 8 grams daily, far exceeding the WHO’s recommended 5 grams. This raises blood volume, increasing heart strain and leading to severe conditions like stroke, heart failure, and kidney damage.
To combat this, PGI Chandigarh’s Department of Dietetics is hosting special diet clinics to educate residents on managing hypertension through proper hydration, balanced diets, and medication adherence. Studies show that many patients discontinue medication prematurely, underscoring the need for greater awareness and consistent treatment to curb the growing health crisis.
19-03-2025