Surge in Hypertension Among Nigerians Under 40: Experts Sound the Alarm
Experts warn that high blood pressure is rising sharply among Nigerian adults under 40, driven by unhealthy lifestyles and poor health-seeking habits. At a briefing for World Hypertension Day, medics noted that one in three to four adults now has hypertension and many only learn it after serious complications. They explained that while national guidelines set hypertension at readings above 140/90 mmHg, some international bodies define it at 130/80 mmHg. Major risk factors include high salt intake, stress, alcohol use, obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia and family history. Doctors urge everyone to check their blood pressure at least twice a year and aim for readings below 120/80 mmHg. Early detection through simple screenings at primary health centres can prevent strokes, heart failure, kidney disease and other life-threatening outcomes. Specialists called for stronger public education, regular community screening and greater government support for research and affordable care. They also highlighted the role of health insurance and treatment adherence in controlling this “silent killer.”
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