High blood pressure affects over a third of South African adults, yet 9 in 10 cases go undiagnosed or untreated. Known as the 'silent killer,' hypertension quietly strains your heart, brain, and kidneys – often without symptoms until real damage is done. This guide breaks down what hypertension is, who's most at risk, how it's diagnosed, and the everyday lifestyle changes and treatments that can help you take control of your number.