Dhaka, Sept 17 (V7N) – The prevalence of hypertension is on the rise in Bangladesh, with one in every four adults now suffering from the condition. Despite increased detection, most patients struggle to keep the disease under control. While free hypertension medicines have been introduced at community clinics and upazila health complexes, challenges such as inadequate funding and supply shortages remain major barriers.

Experts stressed the urgent need to ensure uninterrupted availability of hypertension medicines at all primary healthcare centers across the country. The call came during a journalist workshop titled “Hypertension Control in Bangladesh: Progress, Challenges and Way Forward,” held online today (Sept 17). The workshop was organized by PROGGA (Knowledge for Progress) in collaboration with the Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI), with participation from 30 journalists from print, electronic, and online media outlets in the Rangpur division.

It was highlighted that recently, 35 ministries and government departments signed a joint declaration to enhance inter-ministerial collaboration for the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Additionally, the Health Sector Reform Commission has recommended ensuring free access to essential medicines at the primary healthcare level.

Hypertension is one of the top three causes of death and disability in Bangladesh. To reduce NCD-related health burdens, speakers at the workshop emphasized the need to strengthen supply of hypertension medicines at community and upazila health facilities, alongside increasing budget allocations for NCD programs.

The workshop featured presentations by PROGGA’s Director Md. Shahedul Alam and Coordinator Sadia Galiba Prova. Discussions were joined by GHAI Bangladesh Country Lead Muhammad Ruhul Quddus and PROGGA Executive Director ABM Zubair.

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