Issued by: Dr. P. Jagadeeswara Rao, District Medical and Health Officer, Visakhapatnam | Date: 23.05.2026

Visakhapatnam Indian News Times Today, on May 23, 2026, Dr. P. Jagadeeswara Rao, the District Medical and Health Officer of Visakhapatnam, addressed the press to convey the following message:

** “Get your blood pressure checked regularly… Let us defeat the ‘Silent Killer’.”
“Let us work together to control blood pressure…”

He announced that various programs were organized across the district on the occasion of World Hypertension Day 2025.

World Hypertension Day': World Hypertension Day is observed annually on May 17th to raise public awareness regarding high blood pressure. Hypertension is defined as blood pressure rising above normal levels; it is known as a 'Silent Killer' disease. Hypertension can lead to serious health complications such as heart attacks, strokes, kidney disorders, vision loss, and mental health issues. It is absolutely essential to keep high blood pressure under control. In this context, while continuing to take daily medication to manage high BP, it is also advisable to exercise caution regarding our dietary choices; several studies indicate that specific dietary adjustments can play a significant role in helping to lower blood pressure levels.  As the heart beats—a rhythm essential for human survival—there are distinct phases. During the phase when the heart contracts, blood is forcefully propelled forward; naturally, blood pressure is at its peak during this moment. This is known as ‘Systolic Pressure.’ If this pressure reading falls between 100 and 140 mm Hg (millimeters of mercury), it is considered normal blood pressure. Conversely, when the heart relaxes or expands, the pressure within the bloodstream is lower. This is referred to as ‘Diastolic Pressure’; a reading between 60 and 90 mm Hg is considered to be within the normal range. Historically, a blood pressure reading of 120/80 was considered the standard for healthy individuals; however, in light of changing circumstances and medical understanding, 140/90 has now been established as the benchmark for normal blood pressure. Any reading exceeding this threshold is indicative of a person suffering from hypertension.

As part of this initiative, all government hospitals, Primary Health Centers (PHCs), Urban Primary Health Centers (UPHCs), and relevant medical officers across the district organized special NCD (Non-Communicable Disease) screening camps for employees working in the following sectors:
• Police Stations – For police personnel
• Bus Stations – For APSRTC staff
• Railway Stations – For railway employees
• Other Secretariat / Government employees

During a special health camp conducted at the District Collector's office, blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and BMI tests were conducted for approximately 200 employees.  Similarly, special NCD (Non-Communicable Diseases) screening camps were organized at all Primary Health Centers (PHCs), Urban Primary Health Centers (UPHCs), and Police Stations across the district. Additionally, health check-ups were conducted for approximately 250 personnel during a special health screening camp organized for the staff of the District Armed Reserve (AR) Battalion.
The following tests and services were primarily provided at these camps:
• Blood Pressure Screening
• Blood Sugar Screening
• Body Mass Index (BMI) Assessment
• Counseling on Lifestyle Modifications
• Awareness Programs on the Prevention and Control of Hypertension
Issued by:

          District Medical and Health Officer
                           Visakhapatnam

                  K.V.SHARMA EDITOR