Osun State Government has expressed concern over the increasing number of hypertension cases in the state, calling for stronger collaboration to tackle the public health issue.
The state Commissioner for Health, Jola Akinola, raised the alarm onFridayduring an event in Osogbo to mark the 2024 World Hypertension Day.
Speaking at the event themed “Measure your blood pressure accurately, control it, live longer,”;; Akinola emphasised the need for regular blood pressure checks, particularly in underserved communities.
He noted that nearly half of individuals living with hypertension are unaware of their condition, placing them at risk of serious health complications.
“Hypertension, a silent killer, is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure,”;; Akinola said.
Quoting findings from a Nigerian study, he said that approximately 33 percent of the population suffers from hypertension, with risk factors including physical inactivity, high salt and fat intake, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.
He explained that many individuals remain undiagnosed due to limited access to health information and routine checks, especially in rural areas.
Akinola called on stakeholders to work together in increasing public awareness and promoting early detection.
He said, “We must mobilise health workers for outreach and education.”;;
He also urged residents to comply with prescribed treatments and adopt healthier lifestyles to manage the condition effectively and reduce related deaths.
World Health Organisation representative in Osun State, Dr Oluwatoyin Ojediran, also addressed attendees, highlighting the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring as a preventive measure.
She encouraged the promotion of healthier dietary and lifestyle choices to improve overall wellbeing and reduce the burden of hypertension in the state.
