Hypertension, stress raise heart disease risk among military personnel – Doctor

A military cardiologist, Maj.-Gen. Life Ajemba, has advised military personnel and veterans to prioritize heart health through routine medical examinations, regular exercise, nutritious diets and sufficient rest. In an interview with NAN, Ajemba highlighted that hypertension is one of the most prevalent cardiovascular conditions among serving military personnel and retirees.

His findings were backed by studies that showed hypertension accounted for 15.31% of cases treated among mainly military retirees between 2015 and 2020. Another study indicated a hypertension prevalence of 34.3% among active military personnel. Common risk factors for hypertension include alcohol consumption, tobacco smoking, family history of cardiovascular disease, and being overweight.

Ajemba noted that the demanding nature of military service could exacerbate cardiovascular risks due to intense physical stress, psychological trauma, irregular schedules, and inadequate sleep. He explained that prolonged stress can lead to elevated levels of hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which in turn can cause increased heart rate and blood pressure.

Ajemba emphasized the importance of early detection through regular medical screening, emphasizing that identifying silent conditions such as high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and elevated blood sugar could help soldiers receive timely treatment while still being fit for duty. He also urged military personnel to maintain regular physical exercise, which can help reduce blood pressure, enhance heart efficiency, and increase resistance to operational fatigue.

Additionally, Ajemba advocated for a healthy lifestyle that includes healthy eating, adequate rest, and the avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption to further reduce cardiovascular risks among military personnel and ensure their overall well-being during active service and after retirement.