 Early Times Report
Jammu, May 18: While spearheading his campaign towards the prevention of cardiac ailments Head Department of Cardiology GMCH Jammu Dr Sushil Sharma held a day long cardiac Awareness cum health check up camp at Gurudwara Singh Sabha village Chak Salaria block Ramgarh , Samba with main focus on enlightening rural masses about the increasing prevalence of hypertension and related cardiovascular ailments.
While interacting with the people Dr Sushil Stated that Hypertension, often termed the “silent killer,” is a chronic medical condition that frequently progresses unnoticed until it causes irreversible damage to the body, particularly to the cardiovascular system. Defined as a sustained increase in the force of blood against the walls of arteries, hypertension exerts continuous pressure on blood vessels and the heart. This excessive force gradually damages the endothelium, the delicate inner lining of arteries, triggering a cascade of harmful effects such as inflammation, narrowing of blood vessels, and the buildup of fatty deposits known as atherosclerotic plaques. Over time, this can severely restrict blood flow to vital organs, most notably the heart and brain, leading to serious cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) like myocardial infarction (heart attack), stroke, heart failure, and peripheral artery disease. These conditions account for a significant portion of global morbidity and mortality, making hypertension a primary focus in preventive medicine.
He elaborated that The connection between hypertension and cardiovascular diseases is deeply rooted in pathophysiology. As blood pressure rises, the heart must work harder to circulate blood, often resulting in left ventricular hypertrophy, a condition where the heart muscle thickens and becomes less efficient. Simultaneously, chronic high pressure damages the vascular system, causing arterial stiffness and reducing the vessels’ ability to dilate appropriately. The consequences are far-reaching, as restricted blood flow increases the likelihood of clot formation, which can block arteries entirely, triggering events such as strokes and heart attacks.
He stressed that fortunately, hypertension is both preventable and manageable with early intervention and consistent effort. Lifestyle modifications remain the first line of defense. Adopting a balanced diet, such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy while reducing salt and red meat intake, has proven effective in lowering blood pressure. Incorporating regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, moderating alcohol consumption, and managing stress are equally important. For those with more severe or persistent hypertension, pharmacological treatment becomes necessary. However, the success of any treatment hinges largely on patient adherence and education. Non-compliance with medication, lack of awareness about the seriousness of hypertension, and insufficient healthcare access remain significant barriers. Therefore, a multifaceted approach is crucial—one that includes public health campaigns, community-based screening programs, personalized medical care, and supportive healthcare policies aimed at reducing the global burden of cardiovascular disease. Prevention should not be seen solely as a medical issue but as a societal responsibility, requiring coordinated efforts from healthcare providers, policymakers, educators, and individuals alike.
He added that hypertension represents more than just high numbers on a blood pressure monitor—it is a formidable and silent threat that undermines cardiovascular health over time. Left unchecked, it opens the door to a spectrum of life-threatening diseases that strain individuals, families, and healthcare systems. Yet, it is not an unbeatable enemy. With awareness, education, timely diagnosis, and a proactive approach to lifestyle and treatment, hypertension can be controlled, and its devastating consequences averted. Protecting our heart starts with understanding and managing our blood pressure—because in this silent siege, knowledge and action are our strongest defenses, he said. |
