Understanding Hypertension: A Guide for Everyone

Read Alternative article; The hypertensive Pandemic

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a condition where the force of the blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. It’s often called the “silent killer” because it can exist without noticeable symptoms, yet it significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications.

---

What is Hypertension?

Blood pressure is measured in two numbers:

• Systolic pressure: the force when the heart pumps blood into the arteries.
• Diastolic pressure: the pressure when the heart rests between beats.

A normal blood pressure reading is around 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension occurs when readings are consistently at or above 140/90 mmHg. (See more detailed Classification here)

---

Prevalence of Hypertension

In Kenya

According to the Kenya STEPwise Survey (2015), about 24% of adults in Kenya live with hypertension. This means almost one in four adults has high blood pressure. Unfortunately, many are unaware they have the condition, leading to delayed treatment.

Globally

Hypertension affects about 1.28 billion adults worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Here’s how it’s distributed:

• Africa: The highest prevalence at around 27% of the population.
• Americas: About 18%.
• Europe: Approximately 23%, partly due to aging populations.
• Asia and Pacific Regions: Range between 20-25%, varying by country.

---

Risk Factors

Hypertension develops from a combination of factors:

1. Lifestyle-related
   • High salt intake.
   • Lack of physical activity.
   • Excessive alcohol consumption.
   • Smoking.
2. Biological
   • Age: Risk increases as we grow older.
   • Genetics: A family history of hypertension raises your risk.
   • Ethnicity: Africans and Afro-Caribbeans are at higher risk.
3. Health Conditions
   • Obesity.
   • Diabetes.
   • Kidney disease.

---

Causes of Hypertension

Hypertension can be classified into two types:

1. Primary (Essential) Hypertension:
   • This type develops over time without a single identifiable cause. Lifestyle and genetic factors often contribute.
2. Secondary Hypertension:
   • Caused by an underlying condition such as kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or medication side effects.

---

Management and Control

Medical Management

• Medications: Take medications as prescribed.
• Regular Monitoring: Home blood pressure monitors can help track progress.

Lifestyle Adjustments

1. Healthy Diet:
   • Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
   • Limit salt to less than 5 grams per day.
2. Regular Exercise:
3. Stress Management:
   • Techniques like yoga, meditation, or hobbies can lower stress.
4. Quit Smoking:
   • Smoking damages blood vessels and worsens hypertension.

---

Prevention and Reversal

1. Know Your Numbers:
   • Regular check-ups are essential, especially for people over 40 or with a family history.
2. Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle Early:
   • Preventing obesity, staying active, and eating well from a young age reduces the risk significantly.
3. Limit Alcohol and Avoid Processed Foods:
   • Reducing alcohol intake and avoiding foods high in saturated fats or added sugars can help reverse pre-hypertension.

---

Key Takeaway

Hypertension is preventable, manageable, and, in some cases, reversible. Awareness, early detection, and consistent care are crucial. If you or someone you know has hypertension, work with healthcare providers to create a personalized plan that includes medication and lifestyle adjustments.

Let’s tackle this silent epidemic together—starting with small, consistent steps toward a healthier life.

---