"The Urgent Need for Focus and Funding to Combat Hypertension - The Washington Post"

Hypertension, the world's leading killer, is a neglected pandemic that claims over 10 million lives annually. Despite the availability of inexpensive generic drugs and preventive measures, only a fraction of those in need receive treatment. Improving global hypertension control to 50% could prevent 2 million deaths annually and save billions of dollars. Governments, multilateral agencies, and private donors must mobilize progress, with a focus on strengthening primary health care and providing free medications conveniently to all patients. The biggest health breakthrough of 2024 would be effectively treating 100 million more people for hypertension.