PAHO Guyana Marks World Hypertension Day 2025 with Renewed Call for Prevention and Control Efforts
- PAHO/WHO emphasizes the need for hypertension awareness in Guyana.
- Hypertension is known as the ‘silent killer’ impacting worldwide mortality rates.
- In the Americas, over 2.2 million deaths occur annually due to cardiovascular conditions.
- Guyana ranks second in age-standardized cardiovascular mortality within the Americas.
- The Global HEARTS Initiative supports improved hypertension management.
- The Ministry of Health is making efforts to implement HEARTS across Guyana.
- Public actions like blood pressure checks are crucial for prevention.
Awareness of Hypertension’s Deadly Impact is Essential
World Hypertension Day brings front and center the ongoing need for increased awareness and action against hypertension in Guyana, as emphasized by the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO). Today, health authorities and stakeholders are joining forces in Guyana to stress the importance of preventing, detecting, and managing hypertension—an ailment that is alarmingly prevalent in our region and classified as a leading cause of morbidity and mortality.
The Grievous Toll of Hypertension
Hypertension is frequently referred to as the “silent killer.” This condition is not just a simple health issue; it plays a major role in heightening the risks of heart attacks, strokes, kidney failures, and even further exacerbates chronic illnesses like diabetes and dementia. The statistics are staggering—over 2.2 million people die from cardiovascular diseases in the Americas each year. That’s more than 6,000 lives lost daily! Incredibly, it is estimated that one-third of these deaths could be avoided through earlier detection and proper disease management.
Collaborating for Effective Hypertension Management
Guyana has seen a particularly heavy toll from hypertension and other noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), ranking second in terms of age-standardized cardiovascular mortality rates in the Americas. This highlights a pressing need for collaborative efforts, and it is why PAHO/WHO strongly endorses Guyana’s participation in the Global HEARTS Initiative. This WHO-developed framework, implemented regionally by PAHO, aims to enhance primary healthcare systems by standardizing effective protocols for hypertension management, fostering the adoption of global best practices to counteract cardiovascular diseases. The Ministry of Health is making strides toward expanding this initiative throughout Guyana, with PAHO/WHO standing firm as a reliable partner. Through HEARTS, we aspire to improve blood pressure control, diminish premature deaths, and ultimately uplift the health of the populace.
Unified Action to Combat Hypertension
As we observe World Hypertension Day, I urge diverse groups—health professionals, policymakers, community leaders, and individuals—to take decisive action against hypertension. It is essential to regularly check blood pressure, noting that an ideal reading is below 120/80 mmHg. Should individuals find themselves with blood pressure levels of 140/90 mmHg or above, consulting a healthcare provider promptly becomes crucial. Additionally, embracing lifestyle changes like engaging in regular exercise, reducing salt consumption, and incorporating more nutritious foods into diets can be pivotal in managing and preventing high blood pressure. Moreover, supporting strong primary healthcare services is critical to ensure the early detection and effective treatment of hypertension and related diseases.
The observance of World Hypertension Day serves as a potent reminder of the ongoing battle against this prevalent health issue in Guyana. The collaborative initiatives spearheaded by PAHO/WHO and local health authorities aim to build effective management strategies and promote awareness, all crucial in the fight against cardiovascular diseases. A collective commitment can indeed transform the situation, saving lives and fostering a healthier community.
