Low Medication Adherence Observed in Kyrgyzstan’s Hypertensive Patients
High Blood Pressure: A Growing Concern in Kyrgyzstan
November 2, 2023 – According to the World Health Organization (WHO) Country Office in the Kyrgyz Republic, an alarming 43 percent of the adult population in Kyrgyzstan suffers from high blood pressure. However, only 4.3 percent of these patients actively seek medical assistance and take prescribed medications regularly, as disclosed at a recent press conference by Alina Altymysheva, an employee of the WHO.
Altymysheva emphasized that individuals with hypertension are at a three to four times higher risk of experiencing a stroke. Unfortunately, many people in the country are unaware of the symptoms of a stroke and fail to seek timely medical aid. To combat this issue, Altymysheva highlighted three crucial areas in stroke prevention based on global practices.
Firstly, controlling hypertension is vital to reduce the number of strokes. Individuals with blood pressure readings higher than 140/90 must be targeted for intervention. These high-risk candidates should be identified and provided with appropriate care and treatment.
The next crucial factor in decreasing stroke mortality is the use of new thrombolytics, special medications that can potentially save lives if administered within the first 2-4 hours after a stroke. By promptly administering these medications, the chances of survival and prevention of disability significantly increase.
Altymysheva also emphasized the importance of early rehabilitation after a stroke. Many stroke survivors lack proper guidance on post-discharge care, leading to a high risk of secondary strokes. Disturbingly, statistics indicate that only half of stroke patients live beyond a year, highlighting the critical need for comprehensive rehabilitation programs.
It is essential for healthcare providers, as well as government and educational institutions, to raise awareness about the dangers of high blood pressure and the importance of seeking medical assistance and adhering to prescribed treatments. By taking collective action, Kyrgyzstan can aim to reduce the prevalence of high blood pressure and minimize the impact of strokes on its population.
Maria Orlova, a contributing journalist for 24.kg news agency.
