Hypertension: 72% Of Nigerians Are Hypertensive

Mr. Ifeanyi Ikebudu, the Chairman of the Abuja branch of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, states that approximately 72 percent of Nigeria’s population is hypertensive. He stated this during a sensitisation outreach programme in Abuja to commemorate this year’s World Hypertension Day.

Mr. Ikebudu said that this year’s theme: “Measure your blood pressure accurately, control it, live longer” is very strategic, as it emphasised on the need for there to be a regular and accurate checking of blood pressure, while also seeking to create more awareness on the dangers of neglecting certain fundamental health measures which can make a lot of difference. He also stated that cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of many deaths worldwide and that Nigeria ranks very high on the list of countries with the highest population of hypertension cases.

“According to a 2019 statistics report, 17.9 million people died from cardiovascular accidents globally. Of this number, 85% died of heart attack and stroke. Unfortunately, 75% of deaths arising from cardiovascular accidents occur in low and middle-income countries of which Nigeria is one. Bringing this closer home, according to the 2021 statistics, an estimated 76.2 million Nigerians or 38 per cent of the national population were hypertensive. Meanwhile, of this number, only 23 million or 30% of this affected population are taking medications.”

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Mr. Ikebudu also said that there is widespread dislike and apathy amongst sufferers, and potential sufferers of hypertension, when it comes to checking their blood pressures regularly and accurately. He insisted that all adults who are at least 40 years, to take their health seriously and avoid falling victim to hypertension which he referred to as the “silent killer.”

“It is common knowledge that there is an apathy by the vast majority of persons with elevated blood pressure in taking measures that would enable them maintain adequate control of their blood pressures, thereby preventing cardiovascular accidents and ultimately early death.”

As she was also at the event, Pharmacist Nevan Bello, the Chairperson of the Abuja branch of the Association of Lady Pharmacists (ALPs), mentioned that her organisation had also undertaken several laudable tasks in bringing more awareness to women on issues pertaining to their health and wellbeing.

“As lady pharmacists, one of the major goals we have is to bring health awareness to the society, especially to vulnerable women and young girls. We have a major drive and project towards drug abuse prevention. We give health talks in schools and organize debates for young people. Since we are a technical arm of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, we therefore participate in everything that we as pharmacists do. We reach out to the community as mothers. We visit orphanages and schools to empower people with knowledge and carry out health outreaches.”