High blood pressure is currently a major health problem in the South Asian region and is the leading cause of death among people under the age of 70, says the Health Promotion Bureau.
Speaking to the media, Community Medicine Specialist in Non-Communicable Diseases Dr. Shereen Balasinghe pointed out that approximately one in three adults in the country has high blood pressure.
Stating that it increases the risk of serious conditions such as stroke and heart disease, Dr. Balasinghe pointed out that high blood pressure can lead to complications such as heart attacks, kidney disease, and organ failure.
High blood pressure can be prevented by maintaining proper physical and mental health. High blood pressure can also increase due to excessive salt consumption.
The main cause of kidney failure is high blood pressure, but health authorities say it can be controlled with exercise and a balanced diet.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organization recommends that people limit their salt intake to less than 5 grams per day.