Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a major health concern in Nigeria today. Often called the “silent killer,” it shows no early symptoms but can lead to heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and death if left untreated. According to the Nigerian Heart Foundation, over 30% of adults in the country may be hypertensive, yet many are unaware.
What Causes Hypertension?
In Nigeria, several factors contribute to high blood pressure, including:
- High salt intake (common in local diets)
- Obesity or being overweight
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Chronic stress
- Genetic factors
Urbanization and modern dietary habits have worsened the situation, especially in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.
Common Symptoms to Watch Out For
Hypertension often shows no symptoms until it’s advanced. However, some warning signs include:
- Persistent headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Vision problems
- Fatigue
Regular blood pressure checks are the only way to detect it early.
Prevention and Management
1. Check Your BP Regularly: Every adult should monitor their blood pressure at least once a year.
2. Eat Healthy: Reduce salt, fried foods, and processed snacks. Embrace vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
3. Exercise: A 30-minute walk 5 times a week can help lower blood pressure.
4. Reduce Stress: Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing.
5. Limit Alcohol and Stop Smoking: These two habits significantly increase your risk.
6. Follow Medical Advice: If diagnosed, take your medication as prescribed by your doctor and go for regular check-ups.
Hypertension in Young Nigerians
In Nigeria, access to healthcare and awareness about hypertension remains low, especially in rural areas. Campaigns and community health screenings are key to early detection. Churches, mosques, schools, and workplaces should all be part of the awareness process. Once thought to be a condition of older adults, hypertension (high blood pressure) is now becoming increasingly common among young Nigerians. With lifestyle habits changing rapidly across the country, this silent killer is creeping into younger age groups, often unnoticed until it causes serious damage.
Why Are More Young Nigerians Getting Hypertension?
1. Poor Diet
Fast food culture and heavy consumption of salty, fried, and processed foods are on the rise. These dietary changes significantly increase the risk of hypertension.
2. Sedentary Lifestyle
Many young people spend long hours sitting—at work, in traffic, or on their phones. Lack of physical activity contributes to weight gain and poor cardiovascular health.
3. Stress and Mental Health
Unemployment, financial pressure, academic stress, and social expectations can elevate stress levels. Chronic stress raises blood pressure.
4. Substance Use
Increased consumption of alcohol, energy drinks, and recreational drugs can trigger or worsen high blood pressure.
5. Genetic Factors
A family history of hypertension raises the risk. However, lifestyle factors usually trigger its onset in the young.
Regular exercise, good diet and frequent medical checkups are the top ways to detect and reduce high blood pressure early. At Debjac Med Lab we provide comprehensive blood pressure checks to all ages and genders.