NCD Watch

Control Hypertension Together
Keeping Obesity At Bay • Check Blood Pressure Regularly

20 May 2026 (Wed)

Obesity and hypertension are major public health challenges that amplify each other’s effects, significantly increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome and chronic kidney disease. While obesity alone raises the risk of heart failure by 60%, and hypertension alone by 1.1‑fold, having both conditions increases the relative risk by 2‑fold.

Overweight and obesity are prevalent among local people, yet many misjudge their weight status. Hypertension is also common, but a considerable number of people remain unaware that they have the condition. As revealed by the Population Health Survey 2020-22 conducted by the Department of Health, about half of adults were overweight or obese and over one-third had central obesity. Among persons aged 18–84, 30.0% had hypertension, including 12.4% of undiagnosed cases.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle early in life is crucial in preventing obesity and hypertension. Key actions include eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, as well as refraining from smoking and drinking. While healthy living could cut hypertension risk by about 16% in people with obesity, a 5-10% weight loss can lower systolic blood pressure by about 3 mmHg in those with hypertension.

Self weighing is a simple, affordable and effective approach to weight management by increasing awareness of one’s current weight and trends. Regular blood pressure checks help individuals stay aware and gain better control over their personal health. The Government has launched the Chronic Disease Co-care Scheme (CDCC Scheme), subsidising Hong Kong residents aged 45 and above with no known medical history of hypertension or diabetes to receive hypertension along with diabetes and hyperlipidaemia screening services in the private healthcare market. Eligible individuals are strongly encouraged to participate in the CDCC Scheme.

Source: (NCD Watch May 2026)