The prevalence of hypertension is increasing at an alarming rate, especially in lower- and middle-income countries.

We encourage all healthcare professionals to do what they can to help reduce the burden of hypertension – including early detection through accurate blood pressure measurement and proper management of hypertension.

The problem

Hypertension, defined as persistently elevated systolic blood pressure in the office or clinic over 140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure of at least 90 mmHg, affects over 1.5 billion people worldwide. It is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease events (e.g. coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke, dementia) and death.

Adherence to medication

The biggest challenge in controlling hypertension is adherence to treatment.

If your patient’s blood pressure is not controlled, adherence to medication may be the issue.

We encourage healthcare professionals to have open conversations with patients about medication access, cost, beliefs, fears, and any barriers patients face in sticking to their treatment plan.

Blood pressure measurement

Accurate measurement of blood pressure is vital. Inaccurate measurement leads to
misdiagnosis and mismanagement of hypertensive patients.
The STRIDE BP recommendations help you measure blood pressure accurately.
Visit STRIDE BP for all resources.

Guidelines

The ISH Global Hypertension Practice Guidelines provide simple, clear
recommendations for healthcare professionals on the management of hypertension.
A healthy lifestyle can help prevent and manage high blood pressure – as well as a
host of other conditions. The ISH position paper on lifestyle management of
hypertension sets out the steps your patients can take to stay healthy.

Get involved

Get involved in World Hypertension Day and MMM 2025 by:

ISH membership

If you are not yet a member, join the ISH today! Our membership structure has two
free membership categories (Trainee and Associate Member).
Join the ISH.

High blood pressure is a silent killer. It is a leading risk factor for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, dementia, and more conditions.

So it is essential to get it checked if you do not know your blood pressure.

Many people have hypertension without knowing it. It is a common condition – but it is treatable, once you have an accurate diagnosis.

If you do have high blood pressure, follow what your healthcare professional advises to get it under control.

Getting your blood pressure measured

To get your blood pressure checked:

Measuring your own blood pressure

Download this graphic from STRIDE BP that explains how to accurately measure your blood pressure at home:

Making sure your blood pressure monitor is accurate

Many blood pressure devices available for purchase have not passed rigorous scientific testing for accuracy – meaning they may give incorrect readings.

You can find a list of validated devices by visiting the website of STRIDE BP – an international non-profit organisation supported by the ISH, the European Society of Hypertension and the World Hypertension League.

A healthy lifestyle can help prevent and manage high blood pressure – as well as a host of other conditions. Living a healthy lifestyle is good whoever you are. The ISH position paper on lifestyle management of hypertension sets out the steps you can take to be healthy, including eating a healthy diet, exercising often, minimising stress, and getting enough sleep. Find out more about living a healthy lifestyle.