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These studies suggest that managing hypertension involves improving healthcare systems, accurate diagnosis methods, exercise, and alternative treatments like homoeopathy.
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Hypertension (HTN), commonly known as high blood pressure, is a significant global health issue affecting an estimated 1.28 billion people aged 30-79 years, with a majority residing in low- and middle-income countries. The prevalence of HTN varies across different regions and populations. For instance, in China, a nationwide survey conducted from 2012 to 2015 revealed that 23.2% of adults aged 18 and above had HTN, with an additional 41.3% classified as pre-hypertensive. Similarly, the All of Us Research Program in the United States reported an age-adjusted HTN prevalence of 27.9%, closely aligning with the 29.6% prevalence found in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
In Vietnam, the healthcare system has made strides in addressing HTN through the National HTN Programme, which integrates services into primary healthcare facilities and conducts population-wide screening campaigns for early detection among individuals over 40 years old. Despite these efforts, challenges remain, such as fragmentation in medication prescribing and short dispensing times at primary care facilities. Additionally, treatment adherence among hypertensive patients does not exceed 70%, indicating a need for more systematic and integrated care approaches.
Homoeopathy is explored as an alternative treatment for essential HTN, with various medicines documented in homoeopathic literature and research outcomes. However, the current data is insufficient to position homoeopathy on par with conventional medicine for managing HTN, necessitating further research with statistical rigor.
Traditional clinical guidelines recommend measuring blood pressure in a seated position. However, recent studies suggest that standing blood pressure measurements may be more accurate in diagnosing HTN. In a study involving 125 healthy adults, standing systolic blood pressure (SBP) demonstrated higher sensitivity and specificity compared to seated SBP, significantly improving HTN detection when combined with seated measurements.
Exercise is a cornerstone in the prevention, treatment, and control of HTN. Endurance activities, in particular, have been shown to lower blood pressure in both normotensive and hypertensive individuals. The blood pressure-lowering effects of exercise are attributed to various mechanisms, including neurohumoral and vascular adaptations, improved insulin sensitivity, and changes in vasodilators and vasoconstrictors. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends moderate-intensity exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days to manage high blood pressure effectively.
In Nepal, there is a recognized need for Health Technology Assessment (HTA) to support the screening of cardiovascular risk factors, including HTN. Despite the initiation of the Package for Essential Non-communicable Diseases (PEN), there is a policy gap in HTA for health devices, services, or procedures. A systematic review highlighted the prevalence of HTN ranging from 17.2% to 70.0% in various studies, underscoring the importance of establishing a national HTA agency to enhance screening and management efforts.
Hypertension remains a pervasive health challenge worldwide, with varying prevalence and management strategies across different regions. While traditional and alternative treatments, such as homoeopathy, are explored, the integration of systematic care, accurate diagnostic methods, and lifestyle modifications like exercise are crucial. Additionally, the implementation of Health Technology Assessment can significantly improve HTN screening and management, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Addressing these aspects holistically can lead to better control and prevention of hypertension globally.
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