World Hypertension Day is observed annually on May 17. In 2026, it falls on a Sunday. The Colombian League against Heart Attack and Hypertension has issued a warning that feeling well does not mean being healthy, emphasizing the silent nature of high blood pressure.
According to the World Health Organization, hypertension affects an estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 years worldwide, with two-thirds living in low- and middle-income countries. The condition is a major cause of premature death globally.
The League's message encourages regular blood pressure monitoring, as many people with hypertension are unaware of their condition. Untreated high blood pressure can lead to heart attack, stroke, and kidney damage.
For World Hypertension Day 2026, the International Society of Hypertension promotes the theme 'Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer.' The Colombian League supports this call to action.
