The Nigerian Hypertension Society (NHS) has raised concern over the low level of treatment and awareness of hypertension in Nigeria, revealing that only about 10 per cent of Nigerians living with the condition are currently receiving treatment.
This was disclosed in a statement by NHS President, Professor Simeon Isezuo, in commemoration of World Hypertension Day, celebrated annually on May 17 to promote awareness, prevention, and control of high blood pressure.
Isezuo highlighted a worrying statistic: fewer than 2.5 per cent of Nigerians with hypertension have their blood pressure under control. Despite the condition affecting nearly one in three adults in urban areas and one in four in rural communities, awareness and proper management remain alarmingly low.
“Hypertension can only be detected through proper blood pressure measurement by trained health personnel,” said Isezuo. “Unfortunately, many Nigerians have never had their blood pressure checked or do not have access to accurate monitoring tools.”
This year marks the 20th anniversary of World Hypertension Day, observed under the theme: “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer!” The campaign underscores the importance of early detection and consistent management of high blood pressure, a condition often referred to as a “silent killer” due to its lack of visible symptoms.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines hypertension as a condition in which systolic blood pressure is consistently 140 mm Hg or higher, or diastolic pressure is 90 mm Hg or higher.
Isezuo urged Nigerians to take personal responsibility for their health by regularly checking their blood pressure at home, during clinic visits, or at nearby health centres.
He warned that uncontrolled hypertension significantly increases the risk of life-threatening complications such as stroke, heart failure, and kidney disease.
