Hypertension emerging as silent epidemic in J&K: Experts

Saqib Rather
Srinagar, May 19: Health experts in Jammu and Kashmir have sounded alarm over the rapid increase in hypertension cases, describing high blood pressure as a “hidden epidemic” quietly affecting thousands across both urban and rural areas of the Union Territory.

Doctors say the number of patients visiting hospitals with uncontrolled blood pressure has risen noticeably over the past few years, with many cases now being detected among young adults and middle-aged individuals.
“Earlier, hypertension was mostly seen in elderly patients. Now we are diagnosing people in their late twenties and thirties,” said Dr. Sheikh Adil, a physician at a government hospital in Srinagar. “Stress, poor eating habits, smoking and lack of exercise are major reasons behind this growing trend.”
According to health specialists, hypertension has emerged as one of the leading risk factors for heart attacks, strokes and kidney failure. The condition often develops silently without obvious symptoms, making early detection difficult.
Data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) shows that a considerable section of the adult population in Jammu and Kashmir suffers from elevated blood pressure levels. Public health experts warn that many individuals remain unaware of their condition until complications arise.
“In many cases, patients come to hospitals only after suffering dizziness, chest pain or stroke,” said Dr. Nighat Bashir, a cardiology specialist in Srinagar. “By that stage, the blood pressure has already damaged vital organs.”
Doctors believe lifestyle changes after the COVID-19 pandemic have worsened the problem. Reduced physical activity, increased dependence on processed foods and growing mental stress are being linked to the rise in hypertension cases.
Medical professionals are particularly concerned about excessive salt consumption in daily diets. “People often ignore how dangerous uncontrolled salt intake can be,” said a senior dietician at SMHS Hospital. “Combined with smoking and obesity, it significantly raises blood pressure risk.”
Health officials say screening programmes under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases are being expanded across districts to improve early diagnosis. Free blood pressure testing camps are also being organised at primary health centres and community clinics.
Experts have urged residents to undergo routine health check-ups and adopt preventive measures including regular exercise, balanced diets and stress management.
“If immediate awareness is not created, hypertension may become one of the biggest healthcare challenges for Jammu and Kashmir in the coming years,” doctors warned.