Seven out of ten men with high blood pressure in Ghana are unaware of their condition, contributing to a rising number of sudden strokes, health experts have warned.
Hypertension, often referred to as a “silent killer,” is a leading cause of stroke, kidney disease, and heart failure. Despite its prevalence, many Ghanaians are unaware of their high blood pressure, with severe consequences for public health.
According to the Ghana Health Service, 3.7 million people in the country suffer from hypertension, but nearly half of them—1.9 million—do not know they are affected. A 2019 report revealed that only 30% of people with high blood pressure are aware of their condition, and just 25% are receiving treatment.
Dr. Efua Commeh, Programme Manager for Non-Communicable Diseases at the Ghana Health Service, expressed concern over the lack of awareness. “The statistics are worrying, especially when we consider that 7 out of 10 men and 4 out of 10 women with high blood pressure are unaware,” she said. “This lack of awareness is directly linked to the increase in sudden strokes and other complications.”
A recent study, the STEP research, conducted in selected districts across Ghana, highlighted that participants aged between 17 and 69 years are not regularly checking their blood pressure. Dr. Commeh emphasized the importance of regular monitoring, recommending that people check their blood pressure at least once a year.
“By regularly checking your blood pressure, you can receive early treatment and avoid life-threatening complications,” she explained. “You don’t even need to visit a hospital—many pharmacies now offer blood pressure checks.”
With stroke now affecting approximately 120,000 Ghanaians each year, making it the second leading cause of death in the country, health officials are urging the public to take action. Regular blood pressure checks and early intervention could prevent further loss of life.
Source:TheDotNews