By Desmond Nleya
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a growing health concern globally—and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is no exception.
Often referred to as the “silent killer” due to its lack of early symptoms, high blood pressure is a major contributor to heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and other serious health conditions.
What is High Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. Hypertension occurs when this force is consistently too high. The standard healthy reading is below 120/80 mmHg. A consistent reading of 130/80 mmHg or higher is considered high blood pressure.
There are two types:
• Primary (essential) hypertension: Develops gradually with age and lifestyle.
• Secondary hypertension: Caused by an underlying condition, such as kidney disease or hormonal disorders.
Why Hypertension is a Concern
According to the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), approximately 30% of adults in the UAE are affected by high blood pressure. Key contributing factors include:
• Sedentary lifestyle: Desk jobs and long hours without physical activity.
• Diet high in salt and processed foods: Especially common in fast food and restaurant meals.
• High obesity rates: Around 27.8% of UAE residents are obese.
• Stress and poor sleep: Often due to work pressure and lifestyle habits.
• Smoking and alcohol consumption.
Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
Hypertension often presents no symptoms until significant damage has occurred. However, some may experience:
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nosebleeds
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
Due to its silent nature, regular screening is essential, especially for adults over 40 or those with a family history of the condition.
Prevention of High Blood Pressure
Preventing hypertension requires a mix of lifestyle changes and awareness:
1. Healthy Diet
• Reduce salt intake: WHO recommends less than 5 grams per day.
• Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy.
• Limit processed and fast food.
2. Regular Physical Activity
• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly (e.g., brisk walking, swimming, cycling).
• UAE residents can take advantage of local walking tracks, parks, and fitness centers.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
• Losing even 5–10% of body weight can lower blood pressure significantly.
4. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol
• Smoking raises blood pressure immediately.
• Alcohol should be consumed in moderation or avoided completely.
5. Manage Stress
• Practice meditation, yoga, prayer, or breathing exercises.
• Get adequate, quality sleep—at least 7 hours per night.
6. Regular Check-Ups
• Blood pressure monitoring should be part of your routine health check, especially if you’re over 40 or have risk factors.
Treatment and Management
While lifestyle changes are the first line of defense, medication may be necessary for those with persistent high readings. In the UAE, healthcare providers follow global best practices in managing hypertension, including:
• Prescribing antihypertensive drugs: Such as ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or diuretics.
• Monitoring kidney function and heart health.
• Offering patient education: Many clinics now have wellness programs and dietitians.
Healthcare Access in the UAE
Residents have access to public and private healthcare, with major hospitals like Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, and Mediclinic providing hypertension screening and management services.
High blood pressure may be silent, but its consequences are loud and life-altering. In a vibrant, rapidly developing country like the UAE, where lifestyle factors contribute heavily to chronic diseases, awareness and prevention are critical. By taking proactive steps—eating healthier, staying active, reducing stress, and getting regular screenings—you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the hidden dangers of hypertension.
Your Health is in Your Hands. Monitor it. Protect it. Live Better.
