Bhathiya Barukanda
High blood pressure is a major health concern in the South Asian region, contributing significantly to deaths among individuals under 70, the Health Promotion Bureau said.
Addressing the media at the weekely media brefing, Consultant Community Physician at the Non-Communicable Diseases Dr. Shereen Balasinghe said, in Sri Lanka nearly one in three adults is affected by hypertension, increasing the risk of severe conditions like stroke and heart disease.
He said the complications such as heart failure, kidney disease and organ failure can arise due to high blood pressure. Maintaining proper physical and mental health can help prevent hypertension.
An increase in high blood pressure can be caused by excessive salt intake as well.
Health athourities said that the main reason for kidney failure is high blood pressure, but it can be controlled through exercise and a balanced diet.
Meanwhile, WHO reccommends that people should limit the amout of salt they consume to less than 5g per day.
