Nigeria: Doctors Raise the Alarm Over Rising Hypertension Cases Among Young Nigerians

Doctors in Nigeria have expressed increasing concern over the rising number of hypertension cases among young Nigerians. The former chairman of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) in Kaduna State, Dr Sheyin David Madaki, highlighted that changing lifestyles, unhealthy diets, obesity, lack of physical activity, and economic pressures are contributing to the surge.

He cited the case of a 22-year-old patient who had a blood pressure reading of 170, which remained elevated on repeated measurements. Madaki attributed the trend to excessive salt consumption, fast foods, processed meals, carbonated and energy drinks, as well as a decline in fruit and vegetable intake. He also noted that economic hardships, unemployment, inadequate salaries, financial insecurity, and rising living costs are causing psychological stress among young Nigerians.

Inadequate sleep, defined as less than seven to nine hours per day, is another significant risk factor. Madaki warned that undetected and uncontrolled hypertension could lead to serious complications such as stroke, heart failure, kidney damage, visual impairment, and sudden death. He cautioned patients against discontinuing prescribed hypertension medication once their blood pressure readings normalise, as medication alone is not sufficient to manage the condition.

Doctors advise patients to reduce salt intake, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, limit alcohol consumption, and quit smoking. A doctor at Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, who wished to remain anonymous, echoed these concerns and advised those experiencing sleep difficulties to practice good sleep hygiene by reducing screen time, turning off unnecessary phone notifications, and creating a restful environment.

The article also features a 26-year-old hypertension patient, Emmanuel, who shared his struggles with managing the condition, including physical discomfort, emotional strain, and financial burdens.