World Hypertension Day was celebrated today, May 17, 2026, with the theme “Let’s control high blood pressure together; defeat the silent killer.” On the occasion of the day, the National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh has taken up various month-long programs. These include public seminars, rallies, scientific seminars, free blood pressure measurements nationwide, and publication of awareness posters and leaflets, a press release said.
On the occasion of the day, a public seminar was held at the auditorium of the National Heart Foundation Hospital and Research Institute, Mirpur on Sunday. The program was presided over by Professor Dr. Khandaker Abdul Awal Rizvi, President of the National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh. He said that the incidence of non-communicable diseases in the country is increasing alarmingly. Uncontrolled high blood pressure is one of the main causes of heart disease, stroke and kidney complications. Therefore, it is very important to increase public awareness to ensure its prevention, early detection and regular treatment.
Norul Islam Moni, Honorable Chief Whip, Bangladesh National Parliament, was present as the chief guest at the public-oriented seminar. He said that high blood pressure is one of the main risk factors for various complex non-communicable diseases including heart disease, stroke and kidney disease. This risk is increasing in the country due to lack of awareness, unhealthy lifestyle, food adulteration, excessive salt intake and lack of regular health check-ups. He emphasized on healthy eating habits, regular exercise and timely treatment.
The keynote address at the seminar was delivered by Professor Dr. Sohel Reza Chowdhury, Head of the Department of Epidemiology and Research at the National Heart Foundation Hospital and Research Institute. He said that excess salt intake is one of the main causes of high blood pressure. He called for effective policies and regulatory measures to reduce the use of excess salt in processed foods.
At the event, Senior Consultant Cardiologist Professor Dr. Tawfiq Shahriar Haque of the National Heart Foundation Hospital and Research Institute highlighted the goals, objectives and activities of the National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh. He highlighted the various initiatives conducted by the Foundation nationwide for the prevention and control of heart disease.
Finally, the vote of thanks was delivered by Naushad Hossain, Joint Secretary General of the National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh.
It is worth noting that under the Bangladesh Hypertension Control Initiative (BHCI) to identify and control high blood pressure, the National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh has so far tested the blood pressure of more than 8 million people and brought more than 1 million high blood pressure and diabetes patients under medical care. Currently, 59 percent of registered patients have their blood pressure under control. In addition, patient management and follow-up activities have been strengthened by launching the SIMPLE digital app in 328 health centers. Bangladesh’s BHCI model has been recognized as an effective and scalable initiative in the ‘Global Report on Hypertension 2025’.
The National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh is a non-profit, charitable, government-aided and approved private organization. In addition to medical services, this organization is working as a supporting force to the government in the prevention, control, treatment and rehabilitation of heart disease.
