Hypertension is one of the commonest chronic diseases and the biggest risk factor for cardiovascular disease, stroke and kidney disorders. The incidence of hypertension among local adults is 31.4 percent, however only half of patients are aware of their condition, said Shanghai Health Commission during National Hypertension Day on Thursday.

To promote knowledge of hypertension and improve public awareness, the health authority will launch a weeklong event to encourage people above 18 years old to conduct regular blood pressure checks for better hypertension detection, treatment and control.

Doctors say the change of season and fatigue from the National Day holiday can also worsen people’s hypertension.

“When the holiday approaches the end, we are receiving patients seeking medication and treatment for hypertension and cardiovascular disease,” said Dr Song He from Shanghai Yodak Cardio-Thoracic Hospital. “Fatigue due to traveling, overnight entertainment and frequent banquets all worse the blood pressure.”

“We are also receiving more young people with hypertension, as they've never paid attention to their blood pressure, which has become unhealthy from poor lifestyle, fatty diet and lack of sports,” Song added.

A woman has her blood pressure checked at Shanghai Yodak Cardio-Thoracic Hospital on Thursday.