World Hypertension Day 2023: Pressure, lifestyle increase high BP among Nigerian youths

World Hypertension Day 2023: Pressure, lifestyle increase high BP among Nigerian youths

Lagos, Nigeria – As Nigeria joins the rest of the world in marking World Hypertension Day (WHD) today, recent figures suggest that over 76.2 million Nigerians are living with hypertension, and many more are expected to develop the disease, along with its complications of a stroke, kidney damage, heart attack, erectile dysfunction, and ultimately sudden death if the condition is not properly treated.

According to the Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF), the prevalence of hypertension is about 38.1 percent. This means that approximately 38.1 percent of the estimated population of 200 million Nigerians, equivalent to 76.2 million citizens, are hypertensive.

A striking revelation is that more than 50 percent of these hypertensive Nigerians are youths between the ages of 20 and 50 years. Moreover, the monthly cost of caring for hypertension is approximately ₦N15,964.76 ($44.35), according to the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA). This translates to a staggering expenditure of no less than N1.22 trillion monthly to care for 76.2 million Nigerians living with high blood pressure or hypertension.

Recent studies indicate that hypertension, which was traditionally considered a disease of adulthood, is increasingly affecting young people. A study conducted in Britain revealed that young adults in generally good health are the group most likely to suffer from undiagnosed hypertension, which can be fatal if left untreated.

The study reported that 66 percent of males and 26 percent of females aged 16 to 24 years, as well as 55 percent of males and 44 percent of females aged 25 to 34 years, who had hypertension were undiagnosed. In contrast, only 17 percent of males and 21 percent of females aged 75 years and over with hypertension were undiagnosed.

Dr. Uche Rowland Ojinmah, President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), explained that young people in their 20s can develop hypertension if they adopt lifestyles and dietary habits that predispose them to the condition. These factors include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, high salt diets, reduced physical activity, excessive weight gain (obesity), high saturated fat content in the diet, use of illicit drugs such as cocaine and heroin, and having a family history of hypertension.

The theme for WHD 2023 is ‘Measure your blood pressure, Control it, and Live Longer.’ This day is dedicated to highlighting the importance of monitoring blood pressure and raising global awareness of the one billion people living with high blood pressure worldwide.

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is the leading risk factor for heart disease, stroke, renal complications, and premature death. Usually, high blood pressure does not cause any symptoms on its own. Fortunately, hypertension can be prevented and managed through regular blood pressure monitoring and appropriate treatment.

Dr. Kingsley K. Akinroye, a Cardiovascular Health Physician and Executive Director of the Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF) stated that hypertension is associated with several risk factors and lifestyle choices. The current economic challenges, insecurity, abuse of hard drugs, and excessive alcohol consumption are among the reasons why more young people in Nigeria are developing hypertension.

Another concerning factor highlighted by a recent study is the increased risk of hypertension associated with spending excessive time on mobile phones. The study found that individuals who spent a significant amount of time on their phones had a higher risk of developing hypertension. This emphasizes the need for a balanced lifestyle that includes reducing screen time and engaging in physical activities.

Despite the high prevalence of hypertension in Nigeria, the country has not conducted a nationally representative survey on the disease since 1991/1992. This lack of updated data hinders effective planning and implementation of preventive measures and treatment strategies. The Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF) calls for urgent action to address this issue and gather accurate information about the prevalence and impact of hypertension in the country.

To combat hypertension, the NHF advocates for strengthening the Primary Healthcare system and integrating hypertension control with other diseases. This approach aims to improve access to screening, early detection, and treatment of hypertension in communities across Nigeria. It highlights the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring, adopting a low-salt diet, engaging in regular physical exercise, and seeking early medical intervention.

Cardiologists recommend lifestyle modifications as the first line of defense against hypertension. These include reducing salt intake, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing stress levels. Medications may also be prescribed to control blood pressure, but they are typically used in conjunction with lifestyle changes.

In addition to individual efforts, there are calls for government intervention to address hypertension in Nigeria in regard to celebrating World Hypertension Day. A coalition of health organizations urges the federal government to increase the sugar tax from N10 to N30, aiming to discourage the consumption of sugary beverages, which contribute to the development of hypertension and other health conditions.

World Hypertension Day serves as a reminder for individuals to measure their blood pressure regularly, seek medical advice if needed, and take steps to control their blood pressure levels. By raising awareness and implementing preventive measures, it is possible to reduce the burden of hypertension in Nigeria and improve the overall health and well-being of its population.

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