Prevalence of Hypertension and Associated Co-Morbidities in Pakistan

Background: Hypertension is one of the major chronic health problems found amongst the vast population of the World. Hypothesis: According to WHO, it is the 10th leading cause of death, and global data indicates that nearly 17 million deaths occur annually due to cardiovascular diseases, amongst which hypertension accounts for more than 7 million. Methods: Its prevalence has been seen most in black people. According to previous studies conducted in all four provinces of Pakistan, hypertension has now become the leading chronic disease affecting not only adults but also children, not only the urban but also the rural population. Result: Its incidence is increasing day by day. In more than 90% of the cases, the exact cause of hypertension is unknown, but certain predisposing factors may contribute to this disease such as excessive use of salt in diet, increased blood cholesterol, obesity, alcohol, smoking, lack of exercise and stress. It is more common in urban than rural populations. Hypertension is the most common risk factor for both cardiovascular diseases and stroke. It may also cause renal impairment and hypertensive retinopathy. If it remains uncontrolled for a long time, then it may cause death. Conclusion: This review is an update regarding the prevalence of hypertension and associated co-morbidities in Pakistan