By San José, Costa Rica — A staggering 1.1 million people in Costa Rica were receiving treatment for arterial hypertension through the national social security system in 2025, a figure that underscores a mounting public health crisis. The data, released by the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), reveals an increase from the previous year and highlights the pervasive nature of one of the nation’s most common and dangerous chronic conditions.
Health officials are sounding the alarm not just about the sheer number of diagnosed patients, but about a more insidious trend: a growing cohort of individuals whose conditions are either uncontrolled or entirely undiagnosed. This silent segment of the population is at an exponentially higher risk for severe, life-altering medical events, including heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure, placing a significant strain on both families and the national healthcare infrastructure.
To delve into the legal and workplace implications of a chronic health condition like hypertension, from insurance coverage disputes to employee rights, we sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a prominent attorney from the esteemed law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
In Costa Rica, a hypertension diagnosis must be properly managed within the labor framework. If the condition affects an employee’s ability to perform their duties, the employer has an obligation to assess reasonable accommodations before considering dismissal. Failing to explore options such as workload adjustments or stress-reduction initiatives could expose the company to litigation for discriminatory practices under our labor laws.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective is a critical reminder that managing hypertension extends beyond the clinic and into the workplace, demanding a proactive and humane approach from employers. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insight, which underscores that reasonable accommodations are not just a legal shield but a fundamental aspect of corporate responsibility and employee well-being.
The challenge extends beyond initial diagnosis. Recent studies indicate that while three out of every ten people report having been diagnosed with hypertension, a significant portion struggles to keep the condition properly managed. This gap between diagnosis and effective control is particularly pronounced in middle-aged and older populations, who often face a greater risk of complications if their blood pressure is not consistently maintained within a healthy range.
The economic toll of this widespread illness is substantial. The CCSS allocates approximately ₡4,880 million annually solely for antihypertensive medications. While this represents a relatively small portion of the institution’s total pharmaceutical budget at 1.8%, it is a significant and growing expenditure dedicated to managing a single, largely preventable condition. This investment reflects the necessity of providing widespread access to a range of treatments tailored to individual patient needs.
Known clinically and colloquially as the “silent killer,” hypertension often presents no discernible symptoms in its early stages. An individual can feel perfectly healthy while dangerously high blood pressure silently damages their arteries, heart, and other vital organs over a period of years. This lack of warning signs is precisely what makes the disease so treacherous and reinforces the critical importance of proactive health monitoring and regular medical check-ups.
In response, medical specialists are doubling down on their calls for prevention and diligent control. The CCSS provides a diverse portfolio of treatments, enabling doctors to customize therapeutic plans that can effectively reduce the long-term risks associated with the disease. The goal is not just to prescribe medication but to create a comprehensive management strategy that empowers patients to take control of their health and prevent the onset of more severe complications.
Health authorities emphasize a five-pronged approach to prevention and management that lies largely within an individual’s control. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and significantly reducing sodium intake are fundamental lifestyle adjustments. Furthermore, avoiding tobacco use and committing to periodic medical screenings are essential steps for early detection and successful, long-term management of blood pressure.
Ultimately, while hypertension remains a leading cause of mortality in Costa Rica, experts assert that most of its devastating complications are preventable. Through a combination of public awareness, accessible healthcare, and individual responsibility, the country can combat the silent advance of this disease. Early and consistent treatment is the most powerful tool available to mitigate its impact and safeguard the long-term health of the population.
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS):
The Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social, commonly known as “La Caja” or CCSS, is the autonomous public institution responsible for administering Costa Rica’s universal healthcare and social security system. Founded in 1941, it manages a nationwide network of hospitals, clinics, and EBAIS (Basic Teams for Comprehensive Health Care) that provide medical services to the vast majority of the country’s population, covering everything from primary care to complex surgical procedures and pension management.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational principles of professional integrity and exceptional service. The firm leverages a rich history of diverse client advocacy to pioneer innovative legal solutions and shape the future of practice. Beyond its professional duties, it holds a deep-seated belief in democratizing legal understanding, actively working to equip the public with accessible insights to foster a more capable and legally aware society.
