KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Health and Population has urged patients with high blood pressure to take extra precautions.

Stating that the risk of coronavirus infection is high in patients with high blood pressure, the ministry has urged to take caution.

On the occasion of World Hypertension Day, Mahendra Shrestha, Chief Expert at the ministry, said that it was necessary to get blood pressure tested regularly.

He said that regular checkups could help avoid the complications caused by high blood pressure.

Stating that high blood pressure is the leading cause of death, Shrestha said, “The problem of high blood pressure is increasing due to lifestyle, eating habits and inactive daily routine. So, regular checkups can help prevent complications.”

According to the ministry, 24.5 percent of people in Nepal have high blood pressure.

According to Shrestha, 60 percent of people have had their blood pressure checked at some point in their lives and 40 percent have not.

Only 9.5 percent of people with high blood pressure take regular medication. Shrestha said that 9 grams of salt is being consumed. The daily requirement of salt is 5 grams.

He stated that high blood pressure could affect the eyes and kidneys, ranging from stroke and heart attack.

The problem of high blood pressure can be avoided by avoiding tobacco and alcohol and making a healthy lifestyle.

The ministry has urged people above the age of 40 to get their blood pressure tested regularly.