High blood pressure, widely referred to as hypertension, is a grave health issue affecting millions in South Africa. Often termed the ‘silent killer’, this insidious condition frequently goes unnoticed, wreaking havoc on the body without any apparent symptoms. The repercussions include severe cardiovascular events such as strokes, heart attacks, and even kidney failure — often before the person realises they are at risk.
According to Lizeth Kruger, Executive at Dis-Chem Clinic, the misconception that high blood pressure is predominantly an ‘older person’s’ problem is one of the most perilous myths that needs urgent correction.
“Hypertension is increasingly being diagnosed in young adults, pregnant women, and even teenagers,” she explains.
Contributing factors to this unsettling trend include unhealthy lifestyles, chronic stress, poor eating habits, and a lack of physical activity.
This condition does not act alone; it often coincides with other health risks, creating a hazardous triad commonly referred to as metabolic syndrome. High blood pressure, alongside diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity, dangerously heightens individuals’ susceptibility to heart disease, strokes, and kidney impairment. Unmonitored hypertension can cause serious damage to blood vessels, particularly in the kidneys, and is a major contributor to strokes, which remain a leading cause of disability across the country.
“People need to understand that hypertension can develop quietly, without any warning signs,” Kruger warns. “By the time it is detected, the damage to the body may already be significant.” This underscores the critical importance of regular blood pressure monitoring, a fundamental aspect of preventive healthcare that cannot be emphasised enough. No matter one’s age or perceived health, routine blood pressure checks can be lifesaving.
The encouraging news is that hypertension is manageable — but early detection is crucial. Lifestyle modifications can significantly mitigate risks. High salt intake, physical inactivity, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and persistent stress are all factors that exacerbate high blood pressure. By embracing healthier habits—such as engaging in regular exercise, consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, maintaining a healthy weight, and addressing stress—individuals can substantially lower their hypertension risk.
For those already grappling with the condition, continuous management is essential. The World Health Organization reports that controlled hypertension can lower the risk of heart disease by as much as 35% and stroke by up to 40%. Consistent medication adherence, close monitoring, and regular consultations with healthcare professionals are vital for preventing potentially devastating complications and enhancing one’s quality of life. Neglecting hypertension or delaying treatment only escalates the risk of severe conditions such as heart disease and kidney failure.
As Kruger concludes, “As a country, we need to shift the mindset that health checks are only necessary when you’re sick. Proactive, regular screenings can save lives, and when it comes to blood pressure, early knowledge truly is power.” By fostering a culture of preventative health, South Africa can take significant strides towards combating the dire crisis of hypertension.
