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Top / Mon, 18 May 2026 The Indian Practitioner

Hypertension Emerging as a Silent Killer Among India’s Youth: Experts

Doctors have warned that high blood pressure is rapidly emerging as a major public health concern, especially among people in the 20–30 age group. Kamineni Hospitals Raises Awareness on World Hypertension DayGlobally, nearly 1.4 billion people are living with hypertension. In India alone, an estimated 220 million people suffer from high blood pressure, while only around 12 per cent manage it effectively. Dr. Ravikanth further stated that hypertension is often called a “silent killer” because it usually does not show symptoms in the early stages. Therefore, he urged people to monitor their blood pressure regularly and adopt healthier lifestyles.

Hypertension, once considered a health condition linked mainly to old age, is now increasingly affecting young adults in India. Doctors have warned that high blood pressure is rapidly emerging as a major public health concern, especially among people in the 20–30 age group.

Kamineni Hospitals Raises Awareness on World Hypertension Day

Globally, nearly 1.4 billion people are living with hypertension. However, only one in four individuals has the condition under control. In India alone, an estimated 220 million people suffer from high blood pressure, while only around 12 per cent manage it effectively. Recent studies have further revealed that one in every ten individuals aged between 18 and 25 is already affected by hypertension.

Experts noted that cases are rising sharply among urban youth due to prolonged work stress, unhealthy eating habits, sleep deprivation, and sedentary lifestyles. In addition, blood pressure-related disorders are increasingly being reported among children and teenagers worldwide.

Awareness Programme Held at Kamineni Hospitals

To mark World Hypertension Day, Kamineni Hospitals, LB Nagar, organised a special awareness programme on Saturday under the theme “Controlling Hypertension Together.” Doctors highlighted the urgent need for early diagnosis, regular health check-ups, and lifestyle modifications to prevent serious complications such as heart attacks and strokes.

As per the press release, medical experts stressed that modern lifestyle patterns, rising stress levels, irregular sleep schedules, and poor dietary habits are significantly contributing to the growing burden of hypertension among young adults.

Lifestyle Habits Driving Hypertension in Young Adults

Speaking on the occasion, Senior Consultant Cardiologist and Head of Department Dr. A. Ravikanth said hypertension has become one of the fastest-growing health concerns among the younger population.

He explained that excessive screen time, lack of sleep, junk food consumption, high salt intake, chronic stress, work pressure, physical inactivity, smoking, and alcohol consumption are causing increased blood pressure levels even before the age of 30.

Dr. Ravikanth further stated that hypertension is often called a “silent killer” because it usually does not show symptoms in the early stages. Nevertheless, it remains a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney complications. Therefore, he urged people to monitor their blood pressure regularly and adopt healthier lifestyles.

Early Detection Can Prevent Severe Cardiac Problems

Consultant Interventional Cardiologist Dr. G. Shiva Prasad warned that ignoring hypertension could lead to severe cardiac complications at a young age.

He observed that mental stress and anxiety are adversely affecting the health of today’s youth. Moreover, individuals with a family history of hypertension need to remain especially cautious. According to him, early detection and timely treatment, combined with lifestyle changes, can effectively control the condition.

He also emphasised that families, doctors, and society must work together to create greater awareness about hypertension and its long-term risks.

Healthy Lifestyle Remains the Best Defence

Consultant Cardiologist Dr. Shashidhar Madaka pointed out that millions of people across the world remain unaware that they suffer from hypertension.

He expressed concern over the increasing prevalence of high blood pressure among young people and advised individuals to engage in at least 30–45 minutes of physical activity every day. Additionally, he recommended reducing salt intake, ensuring adequate sleep, and managing stress effectively.

According to Dr. Madaka, maintaining a healthy lifestyle remains the most effective defence against hypertension and its complications.

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