DHAKA, May 16, 2026 (BSS) – Health experts are sounding the alarm about a sharp rise in hypertension cases in Bangladesh, especially among young people. They point to unhealthy lifestyles, poor eating habits, stress, lack of exercise, and rising screen time as key factors.
Cardiologist Dr. Md. Hasan Farooq Bhuiyan emphasizes that more young adults are facing high blood pressure due to their routines. Around 90% of hypertension cases don’t have a clear medical cause. The rest might be linked to issues like kidney disease or pregnancy complications.
Dr. Hasan mentions that the popularity of fast food and online food delivery has played a significant role in increased hypertension rates. Many local eateries reuse cooking oil, creating harmful fats that can damage blood vessels and elevate cholesterol.
“Reheating oil repeatedly generates fats that harden blood vessels, raising blood pressure,” he explains.
He also notes that the shift to working from home has disrupted sleeping patterns. With many staying up late and spending too much time in front of screens, they aren’t getting enough rest, which affects their hormones and raises blood pressure.
Younger generations are also less active than their predecessors. Outdoor activities have been replaced with mobile games and social media, leading to more sedentary lifestyles that heighten the risk of hypertension.
Stress plays a significant role too. When stress hits, the body releases cortisol, a hormone that can increase blood pressure. This issue affects everyone, from office workers facing deadlines to homemakers juggling family duties.
Describing hypertension as a “silent killer,” Dr. Hasan warns that many people show no symptoms while it silently harms their heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes. Many avoid check-ups out of fear of lifelong medication, but ignoring hypertension could lead to severe health problems.
If untreated, high blood pressure forces the heart to work harder, thickening the heart muscles and potentially leading to heart failure. Stress or sleep deprivation can cause sudden spikes that might even lead to strokes.
Hypertension can also deteriorate kidney function over time, leading to weakness and less urine output. It can harm the delicate blood vessels in the eyes, resulting in vision issues.
Still, hypertension is manageable. Dr. Hasan underlines the necessity of regular health screenings, especially for those over 30. He insists that everyone should monitor their blood pressure and blood sugar every six months, regardless of how they feel.
He suggests lowering salt intake and avoiding processed snacks due to their high sodium content. Making simple dietary changes can lower blood pressure by a few mmHg.
Dr. Hasan also advises at least 30 to 45 minutes of brisk walking or moderate exercise each day, which can reduce blood pressure significantly. Maintaining a healthy weight and getting good sleep are equally vital for overall health.
“Hypertension isn’t just for older adults anymore. Young people are increasingly affected due to lifestyle choices and unmanaged stress,” he adds.
According to the World Health Organization, nearly 20% of adults in Bangladesh have hypertension. A 2025 WHO report indicated that in 2024, around 283,800 people in Bangladesh died from heart-related illnesses, with 52% linked to high blood pressure.
The Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2017-2018 highlighted that close to 40% of those aged 35 and older have hypertension, an increase from 26% in 2011. Among men, the rate surged from 20% to 34%, and among women from 32% to 45%. Alarmingly, more than half of these individuals were unaware of their condition.
Hypertension is now a leading cause of death and disability in Bangladesh, responsible for roughly 277,000 deaths from heart issues each year. The Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics’ Health and Morbidity Status Survey 2025 reports that it ranks highest among the nation’s top diseases.
Professor Dr. Md. Abul Kalam Azad notes that one in five young people in Bangladesh is currently affected. He attributes this rise to a shift in diet, mentioning the prevalence of high-salt and high-sugar foods like chips and soda.
Moreover, the intake of fruits and vegetables is decreasing while the risk factors like smoking and air pollution are on the rise. Those with sedentary jobs face a higher risk of hypertension.
Professor Md. Shahabul Huda Chowdhury raises concerns about the increasing number of young professionals battling high blood pressure. “More than half of individuals nearing 50 are affected or at risk,” he stated.
Dr. Sohel Reza Chowdhury emphasizes that hypertension and heart disease are no longer confined to the elderly. He believes that healthier eating, lifestyle changes, and regular blood pressure checks could reverse the trend among youth.
Experts urge everyone to take proactive steps. Regular check-ups, a healthy diet, stress management, exercise, and adequate sleep can save lives and prevent serious health issues.
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