The UAE will offer free blood pressure checks to 50,000 people in the next two months. This campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of checking blood pressure and understanding hypertension. High blood pressure can lead to heart, brain, and kidney disease, and it is a significant cause of premature deaths worldwide.
The Emirates aims to reduce high blood pressure levels by 30% by 2030 through prevention focused health programs. Infrequent checks put people at risk, especially those with obesity and diabetes. A survey in Dubai found that a significant number of adults had hypertension or pre hypertension. This campaign will collect data to better understand the risks associated with high blood pressure.
The Ministry of Health and Prevention in the UAE has launched a national campaign in collaboration with the International Society of Hypertension. This initiative aims to provide free blood pressure screenings to 50,000 individuals across the country. By conducting these screenings in various venues throughout May and June, with support from public and private health organizations, universities, Life Pharmacy, and the Emirates Cardiac Society, the campaign seeks to promote public health and address hypertension, often referred to as a silent killer.
Hypertension, characterized by persistently elevated blood pressure, poses significant risks such as heart, brain, and kidney diseases. It is responsible for a large number of premature deaths globally. The World Health Organization estimates that over one billion people worldwide suffer from this condition.
Dr. Hussain Al Rand, the assistant undersecretary for the Public Health Sector, has set an ambitious goal to reduce high blood pressure levels by 30% by the year 2030. To achieve this, the UAE aims to prioritize preventive measures over treatment and implement effective health programs.
Previous national campaigns conducted in 2017, 2018, and 2019 have already yielded positive outcomes and positioned the country as a leading example among 89 countries. However, many individuals remain unaware of their hypertension status due to infrequent blood pressure checks, thereby increasing their vulnerability to its adverse effects.
Certain health conditions such as obesity and diabetes, which are relatively prevalent in the Emirates, contribute to an increased risk of developing hypertension. While the exact causes of high blood pressure may vary, factors such as diet, lifestyle choices, and underlying medical conditions often play a role.
A household health survey conducted in Dubai in 2019 revealed alarming statistics, with 38% of men and 16% of women identified as having hypertension. Additionally, 29.8% of participants exhibited early markers of the condition, known as pre-hypertension, as identified by medical professionals.
Dr. Buthaina bin Balila, the head of the non communicable disease department at the Health Ministry, highlighted the importance of collecting clinical information, demographic data, and blood pressure measurements from participants. This data will enable the Emirates to develop a comprehensive understanding of the risks associated with high blood pressure and facilitate the implementation of targeted interventions.
