Factors that can increase the risk of hypertension at a young age

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Dr Anindia Larasati, Sp.PD, FINASIM, an internal medicine specialist from the University of Indonesia Hospital, has highlighted the factors that can increase the risk of hypertension in young people.

Speaking to ANTARA in Jakarta on Monday, she stated that obesity and unhealthy lifestyles—such as consuming high-salt foods, drinking alcohol, and a lack of physical activity—can increase the risk of hypertension in young adults.

According to her, the habit of consuming energy drinks can also increase the likelihood of young people developing hypertension. Energy drinks can contain high levels of caffeine and sugar. If consumed continuously, such drinks can trigger an increase in heart rate and cardiac workload.

“Over time, if we consume energy drinks continuously, it will lead to increased blood pressure and arterial stiffness, so the long-term effect can result in hypertension,” said Dr Anindia.

She noted that the incidence of hypertension among young people is considered quite high according to data from the Indonesian Health Survey (SKI). The Ministry of Health last conducted the SKI in 2023.

Dr Anindia cited SKI data showing that the prevalence of hypertension, based on blood pressure measurements, is approximately 10 per cent in the 18–24 age group and around 17 per cent in the 25–30 age group.

“In the past, it might have been found around age 50, but now we are seeing many people in their 20s and 30s with blood pressure exceeding 140/90 mmHg,” she said.

Recommended lifestyle changes include adopting a low-salt diet, exercising regularly or engaging in 150 minutes of physical activity per week, avoiding smoking or vaping, and maintaining a healthy weight to prevent obesity.

Those whose blood pressure remains high despite implementing a healthy lifestyle are advised to consult a doctor, who can recommend the use of anti-hypertensive medication according to the patient’s condition.

“If other risk factors such as obesity and lifestyle can be balanced, then the dosage of anti-hypertensive medication can be gradually reduced until the patient is free from medication, provided that the cause of the hypertension was indeed a poor lifestyle,” said Dr Anindia.