Mumbai: BMC launches campaign to combat hypertension

BMC has launched a ‘Salt and Sugar Awareness’ campaign. Representational pics/iStock

In an effort to tackle the growing threat of hypertension, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched a city-wide ‘Salt and Sugar Awareness' campaign as part of World Hypertension Day, observed globally on May 17. This year's theme, ‘Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer', emphasises the importance of regular monitoring and healthy lifestyle choices to prevent this often symptomless condition.

Dubbed as ‘silent killer', hypertension damages the body gradually and can lead to life-threatening conditions like stroke, heart disease, kidney failure, and vision problems. However, experts stress that with timely diagnosis, medication, and lifestyle adjustments, the condition can be effectively managed.

BMC, through its extensive outreach programme, surveyed over 2.5 million residents aged 30 and above through home visits in the last two years. Of these, 140,000 individuals were identified as hypertensive and are now under treatment.

Furthermore, since 2022, more than 492,000 citizens have been screened for hypertension at 25 dedicated testing centres across Mumbai. Currently, 116,000 patients are being treated at BMC hospitals and clinics.

"Hypertension is a major public health concern, but it is preventable and manageable. Early detection through regular blood pressure checks and healthy lifestyle choices is key," said a senior BMC health official.

As part of its month-long campaign, the civic body is focusing on educating citizens about the dangers of excessive salt and sugar intake - two major dietary contributors to high blood pressure. A 2021 survey revealed that the average Mumbaikar consumes about nine grams of salt daily, which is nearly double than what the World Health Organisation has recommended.

To address this issue from an early age, the campaign will also encourage parents to monitor children's diets. Research shows that lower salt consumption in childhood significantly reduces the risk of developing hypertension and cardiovascular diseases later in life.

The ‘Salt and Sugar Awareness' campaign - branded with the slogan ‘Healthy Eating, Healthy Living, Happy Living' - features a specially produced awareness video with popular Marathi film celebrities.

Social media platforms are abuzz with the campaign, and educational institutions are actively participating by organising documentaries, panel discussions, competitions, and interactive sessions.

17 May
World Hypertension Day

BMC's guidelines
. Regularly check blood pressure at clinics
. Take prescribed medications
. Reduce salt and sugar in daily diet
. Engage in regular physical activity and yoga
. Make informed food choices by reading product labels
. Minimise processed food consumption