Date: 19–21 September 2025
Location: Pearl Continental Hotel, Lahore
Organization: Pakistan Hypertension League (PHL)
Hypertension affects up to 43% of adults worldwide, and Pakistan is no exception — it's one of the most common conditions I see in clinic, often alongside diabetes and weight concerns. At the 28th Annual Conference of the Pakistan Hypertension League, themed "Manage Hypertension, Protect Your Health," I spoke on the role of diet and lifestyle in both preventing and managing high blood pressure.
Diet and lifestyle as front-line tools
My session focused on two of the most evidence-backed, accessible tools for hypertension: the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating pattern and regular physical activity. For Pakistani patients, DASH translates into familiar territory — more vegetables, fruit, whole grains, daal, and low-fat dairy, with a conscious reduction in the salt that comes from namak, achaar, and processed or fried foods. Combined with consistent movement, these two changes can meaningfully reduce blood pressure without requiring medication for many people in the earlier stages of hypertension — and improve control for those already on treatment.
Part of a larger conversation on cardiovascular health
The conference brought together cardiologists, physicians, and allied health professionals across three days of sessions covering the full picture of hypertension management — from medication and imaging to lifestyle interventions. Being part of sessions like "Hypertension & Imaging" alongside specialists reinforced something I see often in practice: nutrition works best as part of a coordinated approach between dietitians and the broader medical team, not in isolation.
Managing high blood pressure or want to prevent it before it starts? Book a consultation for a DASH-style plan built around your routine.