16-05-2025
Early-onset hypertension grips the Gen Z, doctors warn
Hyderabad: Doctors in the city are witnessing an alarming rise in stage 1 and stage 2 hypertension among individuals under 25 years. The surge, they say, is driven by a mix of social media exposure, lifestyle changes, and job-related stress.
With World Hypertension Day being observed on May 17, the 2025 theme — "Measure your blood pressure accurately, control it, live longer" — serves as a timely reminder to monitor blood pressure regularly and keeping it under control even for the younger population.
Dr V Jagadish Kumar V, senior consultant in Internal Medicine at Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), said, "Genetics plays a role, but one key driver is information overload.
Today's youth are constantly bombarded with overwhelming amount of information, leading to overthinking and stress, which can result in health issues. We're seeing high blood pressure even in adolescents."
Hypertension in children aged 13 and above is defined as a consistent reading above 130/80 mmHg (millimetres of mercury). Grade 1 hypertension is diagnosed when systolic pressure ranges from 140 to 159 mmHg and diastolic from 90 to 99 mmHg.
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Grade 2 is marked by systolic readings between 160 and 179 mmHg and diastolic between 100 and 109 mmHg. Grade 3 hypertension is the most severe, with systolic pressure exceeding 180 mmHg or diastolic above 110 mmHg.
Dr Srikrishna Boddu, consultant general physician at Kamineni Hospitals, said, "Young people today are juggling studies, part-time jobs, and career prep, which adds to their stress. We've even seen hypertension cases in emergency admissions.
It's important to take accurate measurements — ideally three times a day over five days."
He also pointed out that hypertension often coexists with other health issues. "Many young hypertensive patients have high bad cholesterol, elevated uric acid levels, or obesity."
Lifestyle changes are key to reversing the trend, said Dr Jagadish. "Daily habits directly affect blood pressure. A balanced lifestyle — including avoiding fatty and salty foods, limiting fast food, managing stress, and exercising regularly — is crucial to control and prevent hypertension."
Skip Stress, Screens & Salt
Dos:
Use minimal salt in your daily meals
Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables
Exercise at least 30 minutes every day
Take time to relax through calming activities
Practice breathing exercises or yoga regularly
Maintain a balanced, stress-free lifestyle
Don'ts:
Avoid alcohol and quit smoking
Don't lead a sedentary lifestyle, keep moving
Don't compromise on sleep; aim for 8 hours
Limit screen time, especially before bed
Don't let stress go unmanaged — talk or seek help
Stay away from oily, fatty, and fast foods
