Hypertension Emerges as Leading Public Health Challenge in KP

News Desk

Peshawar: Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) is grappling with a growing public health crisis as hypertension emerges as the most prevalent non-communicable disease (NCD) in the province.

A newly published research study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions, public awareness campaigns, and strengthened healthcare infrastructure to mitigate this pressing issue.

Hypertension: A Silent Threat

Among all NCDs studied, hypertension exhibited the highest prevalence at 29.2%. The condition was notably more common among females (32.7%) compared to males (25.0%). Following hypertension, renal diseases (7.6%) and diabetes (6.2%) were identified as the next most prevalent NCDs.

Other conditions, including hypercholesterolemia, asthma, epilepsy, coronary heart disease, cancer, and thalassemia, had relatively lower prevalence rates ranging between 0.7% and 3.0%.

The study also revealed gender-based disparities in disease prevalence. While hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and renal diseases were more prevalent in females (32.7%, 3.9%, and 8.3%, respectively) compared to males (25.0%, 1.9%, and 6.6%), diabetes was more commonly found among males (7.4%) than females (5.2%).

Communicable Diseases & Disabilities

The study also assessed the burden of communicable diseases (CDs), with hepatitis B and C emerging as the most prevalent.

Hepatitis B was found to be more common among females (0.8%) and those in rural areas (0.6%) compared to males (0.3%) and urban residents (0.2%). Similarly, congenital disabilities were observed at significantly higher rates in females (5.3%) and rural areas (3.5%) compared to males (0.9%) and urban populations (0.6%).

Rising Obesity and Its Link to NCDs

A particularly alarming trend highlighted in the study was the high prevalence of obesity among women. More than half (52.0%) of female participants were categorized as pre-obese or obese.

This finding aligns with the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey 2017–18, which reported that 52% of women in KP were overweight or obese. The implications of these findings are significant, as obesity is a known risk factor for NCDs such as hypertension and type 2 diabetes.

The study cited global data indicating that 90% of individuals with type 2 diabetes and 75% of those with hypertension are either overweight or obese.

The study, published in PLOS ONE, a renowned peer-reviewed journal by the Public Library of Science, is titled “Prevalence of Communicable, Non-Communicable Diseases, Disabilities, and Related Risk Factors in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.”

Conducted by a team of researchers, including Dr Ziaul Haq, Vice Chancellor of Khyber Medical University (KMU), alongside experts from the University of Glasgow, Imperial College London, and the University of York, the research provides a comprehensive insight into the health landscape of KP.

Tackling Hypertension in KP

The study underscores the need for a well-structured response to the triple burden of CDs, NCDs, and disabilities in KP. Researchers stress the importance of strengthening health policy frameworks and legislative measures to ensure an integrated approach to disease prevention and management.

“Given the triple burden of CDs, NCDs, and disabilities, an organized approach is required to strengthen health policy and legislative frameworks,” the study suggests.

It advocates for improvements in primary healthcare services and the implementation of universal health coverage as essential steps toward meeting Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on good health and well-being.

To achieve these objectives, Pakistan must swiftly implement the National Health Vision 2016–2025, ensuring enhanced access to quality healthcare services. Furthermore, the integration of NCD service delivery at the primary healthcare level is crucial.

This includes adopting evidence-based guidelines, leveraging essential medical technologies, and ensuring a well-trained health workforce, along with robust health information systems.

Better Policies, Better Health

The study’s authors recommend incorporating and prioritizing the World Health Organization’s (WHO) best practices for NCD prevention. These strategies, if effectively implemented, can significantly enhance the effectiveness of interventions and contribute to overall public health improvements.

Addressing the growing burden of hypertension and other NCDs in KP requires a multi-pronged approach. Awareness campaigns promoting healthier lifestyles, dietary modifications, and increased physical activity can play a crucial role in preventing and controlling these diseases.

Additionally, healthcare professionals must be equipped with the necessary resources and training to manage these conditions effectively at the community level.

As KP navigates the complexities of an evolving health crisis, concerted efforts from policymakers, healthcare institutions, and the general public will be essential in combating hypertension and other chronic diseases.

Strengthening the healthcare infrastructure and prioritizing preventative measures will be key to ensuring a healthier future for the province’s population.