The First Lady of Anambra State, Dr Nonye Soludo, has urged Nigerians to prioritise regular medical check-ups and healthier lifestyles as the world commemorates the 2026 World Hypertension Day, warning that hypertension continues to pose a major public health threat across the country.
In a statement released in Awka to mark the global health awareness campaign, Dr Soludo said routine blood pressure checks and early diagnosis remain critical to preventing deaths from cardiovascular diseases. She noted that many people living with hypertension were often unaware of their condition until severe complications emerged.
Read more: Anambra First Lady Calls For End to HIV Stigmatisation
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer,” the First Lady stressed that accurate blood pressure monitoring, early detection, and prompt medical attention were essential in tackling the growing burden of hypertension in Nigeria and across the world.
Dr Soludo described hypertension as a “silent killer” capable of causing stroke, heart failure, kidney disease, blindness, and sudden death when left untreated. According to her, the condition gradually damages vital organs without noticeable symptoms, making regular medical examinations necessary even for individuals who appear healthy.
The First Lady also highlighted the impact of economic hardship and emotional stress on families, noting that the pressure of providing for households and raising children in difficult economic conditions could increase the risk of hypertension and other stress-related illnesses. She advised parents and caregivers to adopt healthier coping mechanisms and avoid excessive anxiety that could negatively affect their well-being.
She further urged Nigerians to maintain balanced diets, reduce salt intake, engage in regular physical exercise, get adequate rest, and avoid tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and self-medication. Dr Soludo encouraged adults, particularly those above the age of 40, to make routine health screening and hospital visits part of their lifestyle.
Health experts have continued to identify hypertension as one of the leading risk factors for cardiovascular diseases globally, especially in developing countries where poor health-seeking behaviour, urbanisation, and changing lifestyles remain major concerns. Observed annually on May 17, World Hypertension Day aims to promote prevention, early detection, and effective management of high blood pressure through sustained public awareness and improved access to healthcare services.
