The Hypertension Society of Nigeria, HSN, joined the global community in commemorating World Hypertension Day, with a strong call for early detection, healthy living, and enhanced access to medical care.
The event, held at the Conference Room of the Sokoto State Ministry of Health, attracted healthcare professionals, government officials, and members of the public.
The theme for this year’s celebration, “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer,” aimed to raise awareness about the importance of regular blood pressure checks and lifestyle changes to prevent complications such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure.
Delivering the keynote address, the president of the association, Professor Simeon A. Isezuo, emphasised the urgency of tackling what he described as a “silent killer” that continues to claim thousands of lives annually due to late diagnosis and poor management.
“Hypertension is no longer just a condition of the elderly, we are seeing it increasingly among young adults due to stress, poor dietary habits, and lack of exercise.
“In Nigeria, about 1 of every three adults living in the urban areas and 1 of every four living in the rural areas has hypertension,” Professor Isezuo stated.
He further called on the state and federal governments to provide subsidized medications and integrate hypertension screening into routine health services at all levels.
Sokoto State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Umar Faruk Abubakar, reiterated the government’s commitment to fighting non-communicable diseases, including hypertension.
He announced plans for expanded community-based health campaigns, saying the state would offer free blood pressure screening and counseling in all health facilities across the state.
“The Ministry of Health recognises hypertension as a major public health challenge. We are intensifying our efforts to improve access to screening and treatment services, especially in underserved communities,” Dr. Abubakar stated.
Health experts at the event urged individuals to reduce salt intake, maintain a healthy weight, avoid excessive alcohol consumption, and engage in regular physical activity as key steps in preventing high blood pressure.
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