82% Of Indians With Hypertension Blame Stress For BP Issues: Survey

A survey commissioned by Ayurvedic wellness brand Kapiva has found that stress and poor sleep are emerging as major concerns among Indians living with hypertension, with many respondents linking their blood pressure fluctuations more to lifestyle pressures than to diet or age.

The findings are based on a survey conducted by market research firm Kantar in February 2026 across Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities, including Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune and Ahmedabad. The survey covered 303 respondents aged between 25 and above, with equal representation of men and women.

According to the survey, 82 per cent of respondents with high blood pressure identified stress as the primary perceived reason behind their condition, ahead of factors such as diet, genetics and ageing. Nearly six in 10 respondents also said poor sleep triggered fluctuations in blood pressure levels.

Among respondents in the 25–44 age group , 43 per cent described workplace stress as “very high”. Poor sleep and acute stress were jointly cited by 59 per cent of participants as the leading triggers behind uncontrolled blood pressure episodes. The survey further found that seven in 10 respondents who experience BP fluctuations face them every week.

The study also highlighted the physical and mental impact associated with hypertension. Around 43 per cent reported frequent headaches, while 29 per cent experienced anxiety and restlessness. Another 18 per cent said they suffered heart palpitations, with nearly half describing the episodes as unbearable.

Kapiva Founder and CEO Ameve Sharma said the findings showed India’s blood pressure burden was increasingly linked to stress and lifestyle-related factors alongside cardiovascular health concerns.

The survey also pointed to a growing preference among patients for complementary natural remedies alongside prescribed medication. About 35 per cent of respondents said they used home remedies such as lemon water, amla, garlic and Arjun Chaal in addition to medical treatment.

However, many respondents acknowledged challenges in maintaining such routines consistently. Around 34 per cent cited inconvenience and inconsistency as barriers, while 25 per cent admitted they struggled to follow the habits daily.

The survey further found that 60 per cent of respondents were open to trying Ayurvedic juice products for blood pressure management, a figure that rose to 73 per cent among younger participants aged 25–44 years.