High blood pressure is the leading risk factor for early death worldwide, with approximately 80% of related deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Daily medication can control high blood pressure and reduce risk of heart attack, stroke, chronic kidney disease, dementia, and premature death.1
Yet millions around the world still lack access to lifesaving blood pressure medicines—even though these drugs can cost as little as a penny per pill.
Governments and donors can make a huge health impact at a relatively low cost by investing in blood pressure medicines and making them accessible to large populations. This fact sheet summarizes why high blood pressure medicines remain out of reach for so many, and what governments and donors can do to bridge the gap.
