Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition where blood pressure in the arteries remains elevated over time. This occurs when the heart pumps more blood and the blood vessels narrow, leading to increased pressure. Often referred to as the “silent killer,” hypertension typically shows no symptoms but can lead to severe health complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, arrhythmia, and dementia if left unchecked. It is a leading cause of premature death worldwide, including in Nigeria, where it affects millions of people.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 46% of adults with hypertension are unaware of their condition. Of those, only 42% are diagnosed and treated, and just 21% have their blood pressure under control. In Nigeria, the Nigerian Hypertension Society (NHS) reports that at least 30% of the adult population lives with hypertension, but only about 10% are receiving treatment. Worse, fewer than 2.5% of Nigerians with hypertension have their condition under control.
A global target set by the WHO aims to reduce the prevalence of hypertension by 33% by 2030, with a focus on tackling major risk factors such as unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity. Among these, excessive sodium intake is a significant contributor to hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. The WHO recommends a daily sodium intake of no more than 2g (about 5g of salt), but global consumption, including in Nigeria, far exceeds this limit. Nigerians, on average, consume up to 5.8g of salt daily, well above the recommended maximum.
During the 2024 Salt Awareness Week, Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMoHSW), emphasized that excessive sodium consumption contributes to at least 10% of cardiovascular disease deaths in Nigeria. In response, the Nigerian government introduced the National Sodium Reduction Guideline in April, a step towards curbing salt consumption and improving public health. The initiative was developed by the FMoHSW with support from various local and international partners, including Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA).
Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, urged the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to enforce sodium limits and encouraged the food industry to reformulate products to reduce sodium content without compromising on profitability. CAPPA has also called for more regulations to enforce salt limits in processed and packaged foods and for clearer front-pack labels to help consumers make healthier choices. These measures would not only guide consumers but also push manufacturers to reduce sodium levels, ultimately leading to a healthier food environment.
In addition to reducing sodium intake, quitting smoking and moderating alcohol consumption are essential steps toward improving heart health. By making informed choices today, individuals can contribute to a healthier future for themselves and their communities.
Related Topics
- HHS Seeks PR Firm for ‘MAHA’ Anti-Diabetes Campaign
- Metformin, a Common Diabetes Drug, Boosts Egg Production in Hens
- Ozempic and Vision Loss: Is Blindness a Possible Side Effect?
