The President, Hypertension Society of Nigeria, Prof. Simeon Isezuo, has advised Nigerians to obtain a user-friendly blood pressure measurement device for early detection of hypertension among the citizens.
Isezuo, a cardiologist and former Head of Medicine, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH), said this in an interview in Sokoto.
He said that the society had commenced preparation for 2024 World Hypertension Day celebration slated for 17 May, 2024 with a theme “Know Your Numbers.”
According to him, the society has visited the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate and checked his blood pressure as a symbol to sensitize Nigerians.
Isezuo explained that, “The society was established to promote awareness, prevention, early detection, treatment and control of hypertension as well as encouraging research in the area.”
He pointed out that hypertension is so common in Nigeria that everyone is either affected or has some one that is affected.
Isezuo regretted that many people with hypertension were unaware of having the condition, and only few of those who were aware enrolled on treatment or properly treated.
He explained that, “Hypertension was a driver of non-communicable diseases leading cause of stroke, heart failure, chronic kidney disease and heart attack with attendant mortality and disability.”
He further solicited for media support on awareness on hypertension that has silently killed and disabled many people in their productive years more than any disease.
Isezuo expressed concern on the rising cost of medicines and commended the Federal Government for prioritizing the health sector and its planned procurement of drugs.
He described the efforts as suitable for achieving Universal Health Coverage and encouraged the private sector and philanthropists to endow funds for enrolling less privileged people with hypertension into health insurance schemes.
Isezuo emphasized the need for the return of traditional Africans’ active lifestyles and consumption of traditional diets derived from roots, stems and leaves with little or no salt, sugar or saturated fats as means of prevention of hypertension.
He also advocated the introduction of non-communicable disease tax on unhealthy foods and appropriate food salt content labels on packaged foods.
He called on Nigerians to always visit recognized healthcare facilities for periodic blood pressure tests.
Isezuo urged the government at all levels to encourage individuals possessing the device and facilitate training on using it in order to support their immediate settlements.
