Shocking Health Crisis in Mexico: One-Third of Under-40s Have Undiagnosed High Blood Pressure!

MEXICO CITY (apro).- In Mexico, the number of people living with undiagnosed hypertension is on the rise, particularly among individuals under 40. The Hypertension Experts Group in Mexico (GREHTA) estimates that more than a third of this age group are unknowingly affected.

In light of World Hypertension Day, known as the “silent killer,” which is observed on May 17th, the group recalled that, according to national statistics, the prevalence of this condition in the country remains at or above 30%.

The Federal Health Ministry states that hypertension is the primary risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, notably coronary and cerebrovascular diseases, as well as chronic kidney disease, heart failure, and dementia.

“All Mexicans should be aware that a healthy artery actively manages the pressure with which blood leaves the heart because it is elastic. However, when the artery hardens, the blood flows directly to all arteries, causing damage. This process begins with weight gain and lack of physical activity,” agreed Dr. Héctor Galván, president of GREHTA, and Silvia Palomo, director general of the National Hypertension Registry (RIHTA), during a conference.

At the Second International Meeting and Sixth National Forum on Hypertension held in Mexico City from May 15 to 17, specialists introduced the concept of “MACARENHA,” an acronym designed to facilitate the comprehensive study of hypertensive patients in any medical setting. The acronym stands for Metabolic-Cardio-Renal-Enteric-Neurological connection in hypertensive patients.

Additionally, the “CAMELIA” Project will be unveiled, an electronic file using artificial intelligence to enhance patient care, which will include registration of hypertensive patients with MACARENHA.

What is Hypertension?

According to the Health Ministry, Hypertension is a condition that occurs when blood pressure rises above normal levels.

A normal blood pressure reading is below 120/80 mm Hg most of the time.

High blood pressure (hypertension) is when one or both blood pressure numbers are above 130/80 mm Hg most of the time.

If the top number is between 120 and 130 mm Hg and the bottom number is below 80 mm Hg, it is classified as elevated blood pressure.

The “Silent Killer”

As per the Health Ministry, hypertension usually shows no symptoms, earning it the nickname “silent killer.”

However, it can sometimes cause symptoms such as:

• Headaches
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Chest pain
• Heart palpitations
• Nosebleeds

The Causes

There are at least five well-known causes of hypertension:

• High stress levels, which can lead to a spike in blood pressure
• Hormonal changes, particularly in women, where the onset of menstruation can raise blood pressure
• High-salt diets
• Smoking
• Lack of physical activity

The 10 Commandments Against Hypertension

GREHTA revealed the “10 commandments” to prevent artery hardening, which effectively means managing high blood pressure, and to encourage people to focus on health from an early age:

1. Maintain a healthy body weight
2. Engage in regular physical activity
3. Eat healthy foods
4. Reduce salt intake in meals
5. Manage stress and anxiety
6. Limit alcohol consumption
7. Avoid smoking
8. Properly take medications prescribed by a doctor
9. Monitor blood pressure at home
10. Keep track of blood glucose and cholesterol levels with your doctor