Speakers at the event described hypertension as a “silent killer,” noting that approximately 25 percent of the adult population in Bangladesh suffers from high blood pressure, yet nearly 50 percent of them remain unaware of their condition.
They said this at a public seminar at the auditorium of the National Heart Foundation Hospital and Research Institute in Mirpur.
World Hypertension Day 2025 was observed across the country on Saturday with the theme “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer.”
Saidur Rahman, Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, attended the event as the chief guest while the seminar was chaired by Professor Khondaker Abdul Awal (Rizvi), President of the National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh.
They warned that hypertension is one of the leading risk factors for heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other life-threatening complications. Emphasizing early detection and management, they called for increased public awareness involving communities, healthcare professionals, and relevant stakeholders.
Experts advised that patients diagnosed with hypertension must follow medical advice strictly. They also highlighted the importance of a healthy diet, regular physical activity, stress management, and a disciplined lifestyle for prevention and control.
The welcome address was delivered by its Secretary General, Professor Fazila-Tun-Nesa Malik while the keynote presentation was made by Professor Sohel Reza Choudhury, Head of the Department of Epidemiology and Research. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from the hospital’s director, Brigadier General (Retd.) Professor Dr. Yunusur Rahman.
The National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh on Saturday undertook a month-long programme throughout May, including public awareness seminars in and outside Dhaka, scientific discussions, free nationwide blood pressure measurement campaigns, health-related broadcasts in media, and distribution of posters and leaflets marking World Hypertension Day 2025.
Currently, the National Heart Foundation is running a non-communicable disease (NCD) programme in 310 upazila health centers across 44 districts to detect and manage hypertension. So far, more than 10,000 healthcare workers in 182 upazilas have been trained to measure blood pressure and advise on necessary medication.
These trained personnel are actively involved in blood pressure measurement, lifestyle counseling, referrals to doctors, and raising awareness at the grassroots level.
More than 800,000 registered patients with hypertension are currently receiving treatment through this programme, with 55 percent of them having their blood pressure under control.
Earlier in the day, a colourful rally was held starting at 6:30 am from Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur and concluding at the National Heart Foundation Hospital. Several hundred participants from different professions joined the rally to raise awareness on hypertension.