KARACHI: Discovering Hypertension project and the Pakistan Hypertension League (PHL) have jointly unveiled the Heart Line Chatbot, powered by artificial intelligence (AI) to guide the 32.5 million people living with hypertension in Pakistan in management of this silent but serious health hazard.
Launched at the 27th Annual Conference of the Pakistan Hypertension League, the chatbot offers a digital solution to guide patients from basic information to treatment pathways.
With only 11pc of hypertensive patients in Pakistan managing their condition effectively, experts have lauded this joint initiative between Discovering Hypertension and the PHL as a critical step in addressing a serious healthcare challenge.
Speaking at the launch, Prof. Fawad Farooq from the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) highlighted the significance of digital healthcare solutions, saying “This AI-powered chatbot is a breakthrough for Pakistan’s hypertensive population, particularly as 88pc of patients are not effectively managing their condition.” He said it will provide immediate access to vital information about hypertension and its management, empowering patients through knowledge.
Abdus Samad Siddiqui, Director of the Discovering Hypertension project, spoke about the chatbot’s role in promoting patient awareness and self-care. “The Heart Line Chatbot offers step-by-step guidance, from diagnosis to treatment options. It encourages patients to take a proactive approach towards their health,” he explained.
Hypertension, which affects nearly one-third of Pakistan’s adult population, remains a silent but widespread public health issue. Globally, uncontrolled hypertension is a leading cause of severe conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure, making initiatives like this essential for public health.
Prof. Muhammad Ishaque, a member of the International Society of Hypertension, commended the effort, saying, “Hypertension awareness in Pakistan is alarmingly low. Initiatives like this chatbot are crucial in curbing the growing burden of cardiovascular diseases by bridging the knowledge gap and guiding patients towards better management of their condition.”
HPL President Prof. Nawaz Lahari stressed the need for developing a culture of hypertension awareness where patients understand their condition and the risks associated with neglecting treatment. He termed the Discovering Hypertension project and this innovative chatbot steps in the right direction.
Local pharmaceutical company Pharmevo, which supported the Discovering Hypertension project, was also recognised for its proactive approach to addressing this public health challenge. Both Prof. Ishaque and Prof. Lahari hailed the launch of the chatbot as a "game-changer" for hypertensive patients across Pakistan.
The chatbot is designed to assist both patients and healthcare providers by raising awareness about hypertension and the importance of controlling blood pressure through lifestyle changes and medication.
Patients can access the Heart Line Chatbot on WhatsApp at 0334-7777996 to receive information on hypertension and its health impacts. In the future, the chatbot is expected to guide users to consultants and clinics for better management and treatment of hypertension.
As Pakistan struggles with the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases, digital solutions like the Heart Line Chatbot can go a long way in addressing these long-standing health challenges.