Healthy diet and stress management key to preventing hypertension – Dr. Kshetrimayum Kala

On the occasion of World Hypertension Day, Dr. Kshetrimayum Kala, retired professor of RIMS, emphasized the importance of consuming healthy food and avoiding stressful thoughts as essential steps to prevent hypertension-related diseases. The event, themed “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer,” was organized by the Senior Citizen, Khundrakpam Assembly Constituency at The Royal Academy of Manipur, Pangei.
Sponsored by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd. and J.B. Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Ltd., the program included free medical check-ups, medicine distribution, and an awareness discussion on PMJAYscheme. The scheme offers financial assistance up to Rs. 5 lakhs for senior citizens during times of illness.
Dr. Kala highlighted that World Hypertension Day, first observed in 2005, aims to raise global awareness about the growing threat of hypertension, which currently affects over 2 million people worldwide. In Manipur alone, it is estimated that 20–30% of the population suffers from hypertension, with similar or higher rates reported in other Indian states.
The professor advised against the consumption of high-cholesterol fish and red meats, and the use of harmful substances such as Kwa, Tobacco (Kheini), Talab, and other narcotics. He stressed the importance of lifestyle modifications for long-term prevention and control.