Giving Compass' Take:

• PSI's video illustrates devastating effects of hypertension in Myanmar and how certain partners are working to make care more affordable.

• How can limited access to resources enhance certain health issues? What can you do to help make these resources more accessible?

• You can start your journey shutting down global hypertension here.


Hypertension — persistently elevated blood pressure — is the single most important risk factor for cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death due to non-communicable diseases. Up to a third of adults in Myanmar are estimated to be living with hypertension, but many are either unaware of their condition or unable to receive consistent care due to cost, availability, and other barriers to access.

PSI works with key partners in Myanmar to provide consumers with access to affordable care for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and major risk factors, like hypertension. These partnerships have enabled PSI-affiliated Sun Clinic Health Franchises across the country to offer health education and affordable primary health care services, extending care to vulnerable populations and supporting Myanmar’s goal to achieve Universal Health Coverage for the entire population by 2030.

Ever since being diagnosed with hypertension, I've started to become dizzy, and have rapid breathing, but I didn't have enough money to go to those big pharmacies or clinics that cost about 7000 - 8000 Kyats.

Watch the video about hypertension in Myanmar by at PSI.