As World Hypertension Day approaches, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued a call to action for countries across the Americas to intensify efforts at the primary healthcare level to combat hypertension — a leading risk factor for heart attacks, strokes, and other deadly conditions.

Despite progress in the region, hypertension continues to pose a major public health threat. Affecting more than 35% of individuals aged 30 to 79 in the Americas, the condition contributes to over 2.2 million deaths annually through cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes. It also significantly increases the risk of chronic kidney disease, dementia, and diabetes-related complications.

Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director of PAHO, emphasized that much of the suffering and mortality associated with hypertension is preventable. “This high level of ill-health and death caused by hypertension is unacceptable because it can be prevented,” he said. Dr. Barbosa pointed to lifestyle changes — such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, reducing ultra-processed food consumption, and increasing physical activity — as critical steps individuals can take to reduce their risk.

He also highlighted the essential role of policymakers in creating supportive environments through regulations promoting healthier lifestyles, including salt reduction in food products and clear front-of-package labeling to help consumers make informed dietary choices.

However, prevention alone is not enough. Dr. Barbosa stressed the importance of expanding access to timely diagnosis and effective treatment at the primary healthcare level. Currently, up to 40% of adults in the Americas live with hypertension, yet one-third remain unaware of their condition. Among those diagnosed, 80% receive treatment, but only 60% of those treated achieve adequate blood pressure control.

To close this gap, PAHO is promoting the HEARTS in the Americas initiative, a flagship program designed to strengthen the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases within primary healthcare systems. So far, 33 countries have adopted the initiative, which has been rolled out across 7,158 health facilities, reaching 37 million adults — including 5.7 million receiving treatment for hypertension.

“HEARTS works and is our key strategy to reduce preventable deaths related to cardiovascular diseases and strengthen primary health care,” said Dr. Barbosa. The program is now present in more than 80% of primary care facilities in 10 countries. Still, challenges persist.

Limited access to clinically validated blood pressure monitors and the inconsistent availability of high-quality antihypertensive medicines continue to hinder progress. PAHO’s Regional Revolving Funds, which help countries procure essential health products affordably and efficiently, are playing a key role in overcoming these barriers. The Funds provide access to validated blood pressure devices and reliable medications at competitive prices, while also supporting demand planning to ensure continuous care.

In addition, PAHO’s Better Care for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) initiative, launched in 2023, is working to broaden the scope of chronic disease care at the primary level. Building on the foundation laid by HEARTS, it aims to improve access to services for a range of non-communicable diseases, including diabetes and chronic respiratory conditions.

As the global health community marks World Hypertension Day, Dr. Barbosa issued a clear message: “Make hypertension control a top priority. Measure your blood pressure accurately, control it, and live longer.