World Hypertension Day (May 17) coincides with Cyprus' participation in the global initiative May Measure Month – MMM25. This landmark program, led by the International Society of Hypertension, provides the public in over 100 countries with the opportunity to have their blood pressure checked for free.

On the morning of Saturday, May 17, the biobank.cy Center of Excellence team from the University of Cyprus will be at Spyridaki Square in Nicosia, measuring the blood pressure of interested citizens. The process is simple, adhering to data protection rules. All participants will leave knowing their blood pressure levels, and those identified as potentially hypertensive will receive guidance on the next steps.

As the official implementing body for the second consecutive year, the Center is responsible for ensuring the successful execution of the initiative in Cyprus under the auspices of the Ministry of Health, the Medical School of the University of Cyprus, and the Cyprus Medical Association. The goal is to screen as much of the local population as possible throughout the program, which runs from May to July, while raising awareness about hypertension, its potential long-term consequences, and the importance of monitoring it.

It is worth noting that high blood pressure (BP), or hypertension, is the leading risk factor for global mortality. An estimated 31.1% of people worldwide have elevated blood pressure, putting them at risk for serious long-term complications if not prevented and managed. Most individuals with hypertension are either unaware of their condition, do not receive treatment, or receive treatment that does not effectively control their condition. Since the condition has no noticeable symptoms, measurement is the only accurate way to detect it, making it critically important. If diagnosed early enough, hypertension can be managed through a healthy lifestyle or, if necessary, appropriate medication.

Communication and Public Relations Office

Promotion and Publicity Sector

Phone: 22894304

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.ucy.ac.cy/pr

During the MMM24 initiative, over 900 adults in Cyprus (average age 48, 43% men) were screened. Nearly one in three participants (29%) had elevated values, and among them, one in five (18%) were unaware of having hypertension. Those with high blood pressure were advised to consult their healthcare provider for further evaluation. Hypertension was more common in men and was associated with higher body weight and body mass index. The rates of diabetes, stroke, and other serious cardiovascular conditions recorded during MMM24 aligned with European and global data, underscoring the need for early diagnosis and comprehensive prevention, particularly among older individuals and those with excess weight.

For information about the activities and blood pressure measurement stations, follow the biobank.cy Center of Excellence on social media, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram, or visit the Center's website.