Hypertension is the leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease and death worldwide. Effective, inexpensive treatment exists — yet according to the World Health Organization, around four in five people with hypertension are not adequately treated.
Where the gaps are
The care cascade:
- Undiagnosed – many people have never had their blood pressure measured
- Untreated – diagnosis is not always followed by treatment
- Uncontrolled – treatment is not intensified when targets are missed
What works
Programmes that have improved control use simple, standardised treatment protocols, single-pill combinations, team-based care with nurses and pharmacists, and home blood pressure monitoring. Each of these reduces the number of steps between a high reading and a change in treatment.
“The biggest gains come not from new drugs but from using the ones we have more consistently.”
Measure accurately
Use a validated device, the right cuff size, and a seated rest before measuring. Confirm the diagnosis with home or ambulatory readings where possible to avoid labelling people with white-coat hypertension.
This article is for education only and does not replace clinical judgement or local guidelines.
