Experts caution against excessive salt consumption and sedentary lifestyle on World Hypertension Day

The community of Obot Akara and Itu Local Government Areas in Akwa Ibom State received a wake-up call on Friday as experts from the University of Abuja conducted a community sensitization campaign on the dangers of high blood pressure. The event, held in commemoration of World Hypertension Day, aimed to educate residents on the importance of monitoring their blood pressure and adopting healthy lifestyle habits to prevent and manage hypertension.

During the campaign, experts highlighted the detrimental effects of high salt consumption, tobacco use, alcohol intake, sedentary lifestyle, and other factors that can contribute to the development or worsening of high blood pressure. The Associate Professor in Community Medicine at the University of Uyo, Emmanuel Ekanem, emphasized the need for adults, especially those in rural areas, to regularly check their blood pressure at primary health care centers. He stressed the importance of early detection and treatment of hypertension to prevent complications such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure.

Ekanem pointed out that studies have shown a high prevalence of hypertension in communities, particularly among people living with HIV. As part of the MAP-IT program, which focuses on managing hypertension among HIV-positive individuals, the experts extended their outreach to rural areas to ensure that all adults have access to proper blood pressure monitoring and treatment.

The prevalence rate of hypertension in Akwa Ibom was reported to be between 33 to 34 percent, indicating a significant burden of high blood pressure in the region. Ekanem urged individuals to be proactive about their health by making lifestyle changes such as reducing salt intake, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and engaging in regular exercise. He also emphasized the importance of reading food labels to choose products with low sodium content and opting for a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

Evelyn Eyo, a Practice Facilitator of the MAP-IT program, highlighted the role of weight management in controlling blood pressure. She warned against the use of packet seasonings in cooking, as they can contribute to increased blood pressure. Eyo emphasized the need for patients to not only take their medication consistently but also make lifestyle adjustments to effectively manage hypertension and reduce the risk of complications.

Grace Uyio, another Practice Facilitator, urged individuals to prioritize their health and diet, regardless of age. She dispelled misconceptions about hypertension, emphasizing that it is a cardiovascular disease that can be detected and managed with proper care. Uyio encouraged people to be vigilant about their blood pressure levels and to avoid harmful practices that could exacerbate the condition.

Overall, the community sensitization campaign served as a reminder for residents to take control of their health and make informed choices to prevent high blood pressure. By promoting awareness and providing practical advice on lifestyle modifications, the experts hope to empower individuals to lead healthier lives and reduce the burden of hypertension in the community.