**"Only 9% of Nigerian Hypertension Patients Control Blood Pressure – A Silent Health Crisis Unveiled"** Let me know if you'd like variations or a different tone!

The Nigerian Hypertension Society reports that fewer than 10 percent of Nigerians suffering from high blood pressure manage to keep their condition under control.

The president of the society, Simeon Isezuo, revealed this information yesterday in Abuja at the organization’s 25th Annual Scientific Conference and General Meeting.

He stated that hypertension continues to be a significant public health issue nationwide, affecting one in every three adults living in cities.

He explained, "A majority of individuals with this condition aren’t even conscious they have it. The reason for this is that uncomplicated hypertension doesn’t present any noticeable signs or symptoms. Even among those who know about high blood pressure, quite a few are not undergoing therapy. Moreover, those receiving treatment often fail to reach adequate blood pressure levels—meaning their readings remain too elevated to avoid experiencing negative consequences linked to hypertension."

He stated that this carries significant implications for illnesses and fatalities linked to high blood pressure, noting that heart attacks, heart failure, and sudden death—among other conditions—are all outcomes of untreated hypertension.

He stated that the conference offers a platform for sharing expertise, exchanging insights, and exploring groundbreaking approaches aimed at transforming hypertension management and advancing efforts toward its control across Nigeria.

He explained that the purpose of the organization is to increase public understanding, promote early identification, prevent, and treat high blood pressure. He also mentioned that it runs educational initiatives focused on hypertension along with community screenings and similar activities.

He urged Nigerians to undergo routine blood pressure screenings and encouraged those with high blood pressure to consistently follow their prescribed medication regimen and consult their physicians regularly.

He stated, "High blood pressure isn't a guaranteed death sentence. It can be treated effectively. More importantly, for the most part, it can even be prevented through maintaining a healthy way of life—this means eating well, cutting down on excessive salt intake, and making sure you engage in consistent physical activity. All of these habits align closely with the typical active nature of many traditional African lifestyles, where daily routines often involve significant movement and labor. By embracing such practices," he continued, "we stand a real chance at fighting back against this invisible but dangerous condition."

Prof. Basden Onwubere, Chairman of the Society’s Board of Trustees, stated that challenges to managing hypertension in Nigeria involve expensive medication costs and insufficient public awareness, with certain individuals linking spiritual convictions to the condition.

The heart specialist additionally advocated for domestic production of medications, noting that a significant portion of the antihypertensive drugs utilized nationwide are brought in from abroad.

The Presidential Special Advisor on Health, Dr. Salma Anas-Ibrahim—represented at the event by her technical adviser, Umaru Tanko—stated that hypertension goes beyond being merely a medical issue; it poses significant risks to national productivity, economic stability, and long-term developmental goals.

She stated that the government is undertaking comprehensive measures, including incorporating hypertension treatment and control into primary healthcare via the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund and the upcoming National Health Sector Strategic Development Plan 3.

Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).