World Hypertension Day 2024: Date, theme, history, significance and all you need to know

Updated on: May 17, 2024, 08:05:17 IST

By Akanksha Agnihotri, New Delhi

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

World Hypertension Day raises awareness of high blood pressure risks and prevention methods. (Freepik)

World Hypertension Day aims to increase awareness of high blood pressure, a leading cause of death globally. From date to history, check all details inside.

World Hypertension Day is observed every year to raise awareness of the prevention, detection and treatment of high blood pressure. High blood pressure is the primary risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease. The World Hypertension League (WHL), an umbrella organisation of 85 national hypertension societies and leagues, is responsible for designating and initiating the day. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is defined as systolic blood pressure that is consistently higher than 140 mm Hg and/or diastolic blood pressure that is consistently higher than 90 mm Hg. High blood pressure is the most significant risk factor for heart disease, stroke, kidney problems and early death. From date to history, scroll down to know more about this day. (Also read: World Hypertension Day 2024: 7 hidden signs of high blood pressure you must be aware of )

World Hypertension Day 2024 date and theme

World Hypertension Day is observed every year on May 17 and this year it falls on Friday. The theme for this year is , "Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer!".

World Hypertension Day history and significance

The World Hypertension League (WHL) established World Hypertension Day in an effort to increase public awareness of hypertension. The World Hypertension League sponsored the inaugural World Hypertension Day on May 14, 2005. May 17 has been recognized as World Hypertension Day annually since 2006.

The purpose of the day is to increase public awareness of high blood pressure, which affects over a billion people globally and is a major cause of death, accounting for approximately 7.5 million deaths annually. Many people are ignorant of the symptoms of hypertension and the steps that can be taken to prevent it.

The day aims to raise public awareness of high blood pressure, a leading cause of death that affects more than one billion people worldwide and claims 7.5 million lives each year. It is a common misconception that there are ways to prevent high blood pressure other than treating its symptoms.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Akanksha Agnihotri
Akanksha Agnihotri is a lifestyle journalist with over 3 years of experience. She is a psychology graduate and holds a postgraduate diploma in Radio and Television Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Delhi, where she graduated as a gold medalist. Originally from Bhopal, the beautiful capital of Madhya Pradesh, she draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural heritage and layered storytelling traditions that subtly shape her narrative voice. She writes extensively about fashion, beauty, health, relationships, culture, and food, exploring everything from trending styles and runway moments to wellness routines and mindful living. Passionate about meaningful and candid conversations, she enjoys interviewing celebrities, doctors, designers, and film personalities, diving into discussions on fitness, beauty, mental health, and everything fun in between. With a keen eye for trends and a thoughtful understanding of human behaviour, she brings depth, sensitivity, and authenticity to her stories, ensuring they resonate with a wide and diverse audience. When she’s not working, you’ll usually find her lost in a book, planning her next mountain trek, or mapping out spontaneous travel escapes. She loves discovering new authors, revisiting old favourites, and spending quiet afternoons in museums soaking in art, history, and culture. An avid bird-watching enthusiast, she finds joy in early morning walks, spotting rare birds, and reconnecting with nature. Whether sipping coffee while journaling her thoughts or exploring hidden corners of a new city, she constantly seeks inspiration in everyday moments that often turn into compelling story ideas.Read More

Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more. Explore now!.

Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.