Only 10% of Nigerians with Hypertension Receive Treatment, Says NHS
Alarming Statistics on Hypertension Management in Nigeria
The Nigerian Hypertension Society (NHS) has revealed a concerning healthcare gap, with only about 10 per cent of Nigerians living with hypertension currently receiving treatment for the condition. This disclosure came in a press release signed by NHS President Simeon Isezuo to mark World Hypertension Day.
Even more troubling, Mr Isezuo noted that less than 2.5 per cent of hypertensive Nigerians achieve proper blood pressure control. This low treatment rate persists despite hypertension affecting nearly one in three adults in urban areas and one in four in rural communities.
The Silent Epidemic
“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,” Mr Isezuo stated.
The condition poses severe risks, including:
- Stroke
- Kidney disease
- Heart failure
World Hypertension Day Focus
Marked annually on 17 May, World Hypertension Day’s 20th anniversary carried the theme: “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer!” The event aims to boost awareness and promote prevention, detection, and control of hypertension.
Understanding Hypertension
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines high blood pressure as consistent readings of:
- Systolic: 140 mm Hg or higher
- Diastolic: 90 mm Hg or higher
Prevention and Management
Mr Isezuo recommended these lifestyle changes to combat hypertension:
- Reduce salt, sugar, and fat intake
- Increase fruits and vegetables consumption
- Engage in regular physical activity
- Quit smoking
- Moderate alcohol consumption
Global Hypertension Trends
WHO reports show:
- 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 have hypertension worldwide
- Two-thirds live in low- and middle-income countries
- Cases nearly doubled from 594 million (1975) to 1.13 billion (2015)
- African Region has highest prevalence at 27%
An estimated 46% of hypertensive adults remain undiagnosed, as the condition often presents no symptoms. Additional risk factors include older age, family history, obesity, and physical inactivity.
While lifestyle modifications help, WHO emphasizes that some patients require medication for effective blood pressure management.
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