New data shows high NHS burden caused by high blood pressure

The government has published new data that shows the considerable costs that the NHS is forced to cope with as a result of diseases caused by high blood pressure.

According to the Public Health England figures, diseases caused by high blood pressure are estimated to cost the NHS more than two billion pounds every year, with these conditions affecting more than one in four adults.

Despite this, more than five million people are unaware they have high blood pressure. As such, Public Health England is allying with partners across local and national government, the health service, voluntary sector and academia to tackle the problem.

An action plan is being published setting out the steps towards emulating the success of other countries, such as the US and Canada, in achieving higher levels of treatment and better control of high blood pressure, leading to lower death rates from heart disease and stroke.

Public health minister Jane Ellison said: "Any new initiative which will improve people's health and wellbeing as well as saving the NHS money is to be applauded."

Also known as hypertension, high blood pressure can increase a person's risk of a heart attack or stroke and is often dubbed a "silent killer".