Hypertension: Unmasking the Silent Epidemic in Developing Countries

Abstract

Background: An estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 years worldwide have hypertension, about two-thirds of them live in low-and middle-income countries. A systolic blood pressure (BP) > 180 mm Hg or a diastolic BP > 120 mm Hg is considered a "hypertensive crisis." Almost three-quarters of the worldwide deaths due to hypertension are reported in developing countries where hypertension awareness is deficient, and prevalence rates are very high. The aging population, unhealthy diets, and lack of physical activities are some of the factors that are contributing to high levels of hypertension. Resistant hypertension, where a patient fails to respond to three or more different classes of antihypertensive drugs, including a diuretic, is also on the rise. The Purpose: This review briefly summarizes the current trends of hypertension in developing countries, its causes, diagnosis, and treatment. It also covers the recent increase in the use of antihypertensive herbs. Research Methods: The review critically analyzed recent hypertension trends in developing countries, with a special focus on resistant hypertension diagnosis and treatment. Conclusion: Training people to diagnose hypertension in hard-to-reach areas is highly recommended to reduce hypertension cases in developing countries. People should be encouraged to eat healthy diets and actively participate in physical exercises. More research is needed in the development and treatment of resistant hypertension.