Hypertension and fatty liver disease identified as significant silent health risks

A study published in BMJ Public Health involving over 1.4 million adults in England reveals that 37.2% of participants have hypertension. Notably, 58.8% of those with high blood pressure were unaware of their condition, having received no prior diagnosis or medication. Among those without a diagnosis, 33.2% of men and 21.2% of women showed elevated levels. Risk factors identified include high BMI, smoking, alcohol consumption, and family history of heart disease. Additionally, 50.2% of participants already on medication still had blood pressure above recommended limits.

Separately, data from the U.S. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) estimates that approximately one-quarter of the United States population has non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. While often linked to obesity, the condition can affect individuals with normal weight, particularly those with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance. Symptoms can be subtle, including increased abdominal fat (visceral fat) and persistent fatigue, but can progress to inflammation, fibrosis, or cirrhosis if left unmanaged.