Over 1.2 million individuals with high blood pressure received care and monitoring at Morocco’s primary healthcare institutions (ESSP) in 2024, according to Amin Tahrawi, Minister of Health and Social Protection.

In a circular issued for World Hypertension Day (May 17), Tahraoui stated that this figure represents only 26% of the estimated number of people with hypertension who use these facilities. The national program aims to increase this coverage to at least 70% by 2030.

The minister highlighted that Morocco is significantly affected by the condition. Findings from the 2018 “STEPS” national survey on non-communicable disease risk factors showed that hypertension is a primary cause of cardiovascular diseases, with a prevalence of 29.3% among adults aged 18 and over. This rate increases sharply with age, reaching 69.3% for those aged 70 and above.

Tahraoui also pointed out that more than a third of adults have never had their blood pressure measured, with this lack of screening being particularly notable among men (52%) and in rural areas (43.5%).

The Health Minister emphasized using World Hypertension Day to promote early detection and management of the condition, and to encourage collective action from individuals, families, communities, and governments to reduce the burden of illness, disability, and death caused by hypertension.