Assurance Maladie launches hypertension screening campaign in France

The French National Health Insurance (Assurance Maladie) has launched a national awareness campaign titled ‘Votre tension mérite toute votre attention’ to combat hypertension. Approximately 17 million adults in France are affected by high blood pressure, yet an estimated 6 million people are unaware of their condition.

Hypertension is a leading cause of preventable strokes, heart attacks, and cognitive decline. In France, the condition results in roughly 55,000 deaths and 400,000 hospitalizations annually. The campaign encourages a ‘two-minute reflex’ where patients actively request that a doctor, nurse, or midwife measure their blood pressure during consultations. A reading exceeding 140/90 mmHg requires follow-up.

Medical experts note that proper management can reduce the risk of stroke by 40%, heart attack by 25%, and mild cognitive impairment by 20%. Globally, the World Health Organization estimates that hypertension contributes to nearly 8 million deaths per year, with a growing burden in low- and middle-income countries.