Survey Shows 30% Hypertension Prevalence In Nigeria – FG

By Deborah Onyofufeke, Abuja
The Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire, has said that Several pockets of studies and surveys in Nigeria has shown that there is an Excess of 30% prevalence of hypertension in Nigeria.

Dr Ehanire also said that globally, more than one billion people worldwide are living with hypertension and this represents more than 30% of the adult population

He noted that Hypertension is the leading cardiovascular disease and Non-Communicable Disease (NCDs) responsible for significant morbidity and mortality, with low-and-middle-income countries responsible for nearly 80% of the global cardiovascular disease burden.

The minister, represented by the Director of Public Health, Dr Alex Okoh, said this in Abuja at the press briefing held to mark the 2023 World Hypertension Day with the theme “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer”.

The minister disclosed that this year, the health sector is focused on combatting low awareness, especially in low and middle income countries and also to promote accurate blood pressure measurement methods

He said that plans have been concluded to conduct the national steps survey for non communicable diseases which includes hypertension in the country and a national guideline for the prevention and management of hypertension has been developed to guide provision of standardized care

“According to the 2019 WHO Non-Communicable Diseases Country Profiles, NCDs accounted for 29% of all deaths in Nigeria with cardiovascular disease, predominantly hypertension, responsible for 11% of all the NCD deaths, and premature mortality due to NCDs at 22%. Premature mortality due to NCDs is defined as the probability of dying between ages 30 and 70 years from any of the common NCDs.

“Of this number, only 52% are aware of their condition while about 35% are on treatment and less than 14% have their blood pressure controlled.

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“A National guideline for the prevention and management of hypertension In Nigeria has been developed to guide provision of standardized care. The hypertension guidelines has treatment protocols and algorithms used at all levels of health care provision”

The minister expressed worry at the burden of hypertensionwhich he said is disproportionately more in the low and middle-income countries in recent decades due to the increase in prevalence of risk factors such as tobacco use, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet and harmful alcohol consumption.

He added that the significant burden is further accentuated by the high proportion of persons that are unaware of their condition, putting them at risk of avoidable medical complications and death

He advised Nigerians to screen themselves at every opportunitythey get, as early detection and diagnosis, counselling, and prompt provision of standard treatment and care are essential elements for the prevention and control of hypertension

He also warned that if these steps are not taken seriously,hypertension can lead to fatal complications such as heart disease, heart failure, stroke, blindness, chronic kidney failure, dementia, and a lot more.

He also said Hypertension is preventable and can easily be detected for those prone to having it.

“Let me reiterate loudly that hypertension is preventable and can easily be detected and treated – its control is paramount in reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease in the country. For those on treatment, please avoid the temptation of stopping your medication and follow-up clinic visits without advice from your doctor or the health care worker attending to you. Generally, the adoption of healthy lifestyle by individuals is an integral strategy that should be practiced by all.

“Eat a healthy diet containing a minimum of five servings of variety of fresh fruits and vegetables spread over each day. In addition, eat a variety of whole grains, lean meat, fish, peas, beans, and lentils. Avoid processed foods, limit salt intake to less than five grams (1 teaspoon) daily, reduce dietary cholesterol and avoid industrially produced trans-fats.” He said.

He also advised that Nigerians should engage in physical activity for a minimum of 30 minutes daily

He reiterated that it was important as physical activities relieve stress, helps one keep fit, controls body weight, and lowers heart disease and stroke risk.