The Nigerian Hypertension Society has revealed that only about 10 per cent of Nigerians living with hypertension are currently receiving treatment for the condition.
Joining the global health community to commemorate World Hypertension Day 2025, the NHS President, Prof. Simeon Isezuo, explained that less than 2.5 per cent of Nigerians with hypertension achieve blood pressure control or normal blood pressure.
World Hypertension Day, marked annually on May 17, raises awareness and promotes hypertension prevention, detection and control. This year’s theme is “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer!”
Hypertension, a leading cause of heart disease and premature death, has been on the rise in Nigeria.
According to the World Health Organisation, hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is when the blood pressure is too high and reads 140/90 mmHg or higher when checked with a blood pressure cuff, sphygmomanometer.
The WHO further notes that hypertension is common, but about 46 per cent of adults with it are unaware that they have the condition.
It adds that about 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 years have hypertension, with most of them living in low-and-middle income countries.
The agency notes that ageing, genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, high salt intake and excessive alcohol consumption increased the risk of HBP.
The WHO African Region has the highest prevalence at 27 per cent, while the Region of the Americas has the lowest at 18 per cent.
It noted that an estimated 46 per cent of adults with hypertension are unaware they have the condition, as it often presents with no symptoms.
In a press statement to commemorate WHD, Isezuo noted that hypertension affects nearly one in three adults in urban areas and one in four in rural communities.
According to him, awareness and management of the condition remain critically low, putting millions at risk of serious complications like stroke, kidney disease, and heart failure.
“Hypertension can only be detected through blood pressure measurement by health personnel. Unfortunately, many Nigerians have never measured their blood pressure or have access to accurate blood pressure measurement,” Isezuo said.
He, however, urged Nigerians to regularly check their blood pressure during every healthcare visit, at home, or in nearby health facilities.
The NHS boss also recommended adopting a healthy lifestyle, including low salt, sugar, and fat intake, to prevent and manage hypertension. ,
Other recommendations include high consumption of fruits and vegetables, regular physical activity, quitting smoking, and moderating alcohol consumption.
PUNCH Healthwise reports that medical experts have warned hypertensive patients against discontinuing their medications without professional guidance.
They explained that taking drug holidays may impact the management of the condition’s outcomes, which may ultimately increase the morbidity and mortality associated with cardiovascular diseases linked to hypertension.(Punch)
