On the occasion of National Hypertension Day, celebrated on May 23, health professionals in Morocco are raising awareness about a silent disease that affects one in three adults in the country. According to the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, hypertension is a major public health issue, with prevalence rates reaching 33% among adults aged 18 and above.
Despite its high prevalence, hypertension remains largely underdiagnosed and poorly controlled. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that only about half of people with hypertension are aware of their condition, and less than one in five have it under control. This lack of awareness and management contributes to serious complications, including heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure.
The Moroccan Society of Hypertension and the National Institute of Health have emphasized the need for regular blood pressure screening, especially for individuals over 40, those with a family history of hypertension, and people with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, or a sedentary lifestyle. Lifestyle modifications, including reducing salt intake, increasing physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight, are key preventive measures.
Health authorities are also working to improve access to affordable antihypertensive medications and to strengthen primary care services for chronic disease management. The goal is to reduce the burden of hypertension-related morbidity and mortality in Morocco.
