Today on World Hypertension Day, Gleneagles Global Hospitals (GGH), Hyderabad in association with Cardiological Society of India (CSI) – Telangana Chapter released a study showing alarming results with regard to spike in Hypertension and Diabetes prevalence among the population in Hyderabad. GGH and CSI jointly conducted one of the largest surveys in GHMC to understand the impact of COVID-19 on Hypertension among public. The survey shows over 50% of the population in the city are prone to hypertension which will push the already diabetic capital city to also become hypertension capital. Around 10,000 patients were screened and with the help of statisticians from National Institute of Nutrition analysed the samples in a scientific manner and interim results of 5000 patients was presented.
Dr Sai Sudhakar, Joint Secretary, Cardiological Society of India – Telangana Chapter released the survey results in the presence of Shri T Harish Rao, Minister for Health and Finance, Govt of Telangana, which showed alarming trends in prevalence of hypertension which increased to 40% from earlier average rate of 25%. The reason of spike in hypertension during COVID time could be lifestyle changes like work from home leading to sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy dietary habits, obesity and other factors like job loss stress, financial loss stress, etc. The average BMI was found to be more than 24 (overweight) in 70% of the population which could also be the one of the major causes.
Dr Rajeev Garg, President of Telangana chapter, Cardiological Society of India, said “this time we have screened population who are 25 years to 50 years of age. It is alarming to see that even younger people are becoming more hypertensive and diabetics. When analysed the lifestyle of the surveyed, dietary habits, smoking, stress levels are major factors contributing to hypertension, coronary artery disease and diabetes and obesity among the people”.
“People should emphasis on reducing salt, oil and carbohydrate content in diet and inculcating exercise in our daily routine” added Dr Rajeev Garg.
