Latest news with #MayMeasurementMonth
Mail & Guardian
16-05-2025
- Health
- Mail & Guardian
Hypertension in Africa: An Escalating Public Health Crisis
As the world marks World Hypertension Day on 17 May and observes May Measurement Month, the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) is calling on healthcare providers to make blood pressure checks a routine part of every patient visit. The SAMRC is also urging the government to integrate regular screenings into school health programmes, laying the foundation for a healthy generation and reducing the growing burden of hypertension in communities across the country. Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, remains one of the leading risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and global CVD-related deaths. It causes a series of cardiovascular disorders, including ischemic heart disease, heart failure and stroke with 50–60% of strokes being attributable to elevated blood pressure. Clinically defined as a systolic/diastolic blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg, hypertension affects an estimated 1.4 billion adults aged 30–79 worldwide, with more men likely to have hypertension than women before the age of 55. Over the past two decades, the burden of hypertension has shifted markedly from high-income countries (HIC) to low-and middle-income countries (LMICs) with nearly two-thirds of affected individuals residing in LMICs. Regions such as South Asia, parts of Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) have seen particularly steep increases. In South Africa (SA), hypertension affects 48% of women and 34% of men, according to 2019 data. More worryingly, there is a rising prevalence of childhood hypertension, often linked to early life exposure as well as increased rates of overweight and obesity. This suggests a looming public health crisis, especially given the long-term cardiovascular risk associated with early-onset hypertension. Despite multiple calls to action strategic roadmaps from regional and international bodies, awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension remains suboptimal, both globally and in SA . A recent study by Dr. Lebo Gafene-Matemane reports that fewer than 10% of hypertensive men and only 13% of women in SA are aware of their condition. Among those diagnosed and treated, just 14–21% achieve adequate blood pressure control. Regarding childhood hypertension, there is a lack of African-specific blood pressure nomograms for children, and no adequate data exists to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of pharmacological treatment for high BP in children and adolescents. This is particularly concerning given the evidence that individuals of African descent often experience more severe hypertension phenotypes, requiring more aggressive treatment regimens. Yet regional variability is high, and factors such as rapid urbanisation, lifestyle transitions in rural communities, limited access to health education, and the obesity epidemic continue to fuel the disease burden, especially in SA. South Africa, already grappling with the quadruple burden of disease, infectious illnesses, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), maternal and child health issues, and trauma, faces a growing hypertension epidemic that threatens to overwhelm an already stretched healthcare system. The socio-economic consequences are substantial, including lost productivity and escalating healthcare costs. In response to this global crisis, initiatives like May Measure Month, a public health campaign spearheaded by the International Society of Hypertension (ISH), aim to raise awareness and increase screening. This effort underscores the importance of 'knowing your numbers,' as hypertension is often asymptomatic yet profoundly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and premature death. Once identified, lifestyle modification remains a cornerstone of management. Some evidence-based recommendations include: Physical activity: At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week (e.g., 30 minutes of brisk walking five days a week). Sleep: Prioritising 7–8 hours of quality sleep nightly. Stress reduction: Incorporating deep breathing, mindfulness, or social connection strategies. Dietary changes: Limiting salt and sugar intake, increasing hydration, replacing alcohol with herbal teas or sparkling water, and swapping sugary beverages for fruit-infused water. These accessible interventions can improve both blood pressure control and overall well-being. The 2024 European Society of Hypertension (ESH) guidelines present significant advancements in pharmacological management aimed at simplifying treatment regimens and adherence. In addition, according to the new guidelines, an aggressive blood pressure target of <130/80 mmHg is now advocated for most patients, to reduce CV events. Nevertheless, despite these interventions, a significant portion of hypertensive individuals struggle with uncontrolled blood pressure due to inadequate drug response, rendering them vulnerable to CVD events. As such, 'therapeutic trial and error' becomes a challenge as medications are based on a 'one drug fits all approach', but adjustments are needed as the individuals' comorbidities, diet, body mass index, and genetic makeup affect how one respond to antihypertensive medications. African populations, though genetically diverse, have historically been underrepresented in genetic studies, resulting in significant gaps in understanding the genetic basis of diseases within these communities. This lack of empirical data limits insights into how African individuals respond to various antihypertensive medications, leading to the widespread use of a 'one drug fits all approach'. Prof Rabia Johnson said that 'while standard hypertension therapies may be effective for the majority, a more personalised approach is critical for individuals with distinct hypertension subtypes that do not respond as expected. Addressing this gap through pharmacogenetic research can optimise treatment strategies, improve patient outcomes, and advance precision medicine for African populations. Although promising strides are being made, we remain a long way from achieving truly personalised medicine, making sustained research efforts in this area more important than ever.' We call on healthcare providers across South Africa to make blood pressure measurement a routine part of every patient visit. A simple check could save a life. Early detection and management are key to preventing long-term damage. We urge the South African government and Department of Health to integrate regular blood pressure screenings into school health programs. Early screening and education can build a generation of heart-healthy citizens and reduce the burden of hypertension in our communities. And to every South African, take charge of your health, get your blood pressure measured. Whether at a clinic, pharmacy, or community health event, knowing your numbers is the first step to controlling them. Together, we can beat hypertension, one blood pressure check at a time.
The Citizen
13-05-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Locals urged to check their blood pressure this May
Locals urged to check their blood pressure this May This May Measurement Month, health experts are sounding the alarm on hypertension (HTN), a condition that affects billions worldwide yet remains dangerously underdiagnosed and undertreated. Alarmingly, a recent study found that 74% of patients are unaware that they are at risk of hypertension or are unaware of their hypertension status. World Hypertension Day is observed on May 17. ALSO READ: Foundation calls for mental health support in gamblers HTN is the most significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease (in SA. With cardiovascular disease ranking among the top 10 causes of death worldwide, detecting and controlling blood pressure has never been more critical. Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to serious health complications, significantly increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and heart failure. It's also linked to a higher likelihood of developing dementia and can drastically reduce overall quality of life. These consequences contribute to increased mortality and morbidity, underscoring the importance of early detection, treatment and management of high blood pressure. May Measurement Month A public health campaign, Because I Say So is part of a global blood pressure screening initiative, May Measurement Month. ALSO READ: Use suggestion boxes to raise concerns at healthcare facilities – City Now in its ninth year, this collaborative campaign was initiated in response to the hypertension health crisis. It is led by the International Society of Hypertension, in collaboration with the Southern African Hypertension Society and Servier, among other scientific societies. It is a public call for everyone to get their blood pressure (BP) checked. This non-invasive test takes five minutes, is free during May Measurement Month, and can help save lives. Professor Erika Jones, the president of the Southern African Hypertension Society, said, 'Hypertension is often called the 'silent killer' because it typically has no symptoms until significant damage has occurred. 'It is a leading cause of heart disease and stroke, accounting for nearly half of related deaths worldwide. Despite this, awareness, treatment and control remain alarmingly low.' The scale of the problem The statistics, as recorded in 2019, paint a concerning picture: • 4.06 billion adults were affected by high systolic blood pressure; • 1.3 billion adults (30-79 years) were affected by hypertension; • 10.8 million deaths were associated with raised blood pressure; • Approximately 60% of adults develop hypertension by 60 years of age; • Up to 90% of adults living to 80 are likely to develop hypertension; • Hypertension causes over 50% of heart disease, stroke and heart failure cases. SA faces an exceptionally high burden, with the South African Demographic and Health Survey (SADHS) reporting a hypertension prevalence of 46.0% in females and 44.0% in males above 18 years of age. Even more concerning, over 80% of people living with hypertension have uncontrolled blood pressure. This prevalence significantly exceeds the global average of 31.1%. ALSO READ: Local group walks to boost health The treatment gap A 'treatment cascade' exists for patients with hypertension. A report by the World Heart Federation (WHF), Roadmap for Hypertension, starts with those with high blood pressure, although many don't even know their status. Of those diagnosed, only a portion receive treatment, and fewer still achieve blood pressure control. Finally, patient adherence remains the biggest challenge. Effective prevention and detection of hypertension require a multi-faceted approach. This includes robust screening policies that include initial blood pressure screenings from the age of 18 and regular follow-ups and opportunistic screenings in various settings like workplaces, schools and community spaces. Population-wide interventions play a crucial role in prevention by promoting weight control through healthier diets (like the DASH diet), improving access to nutritious foods and implementing salt reduction strategies. 'Additionally, lifestyle interventions, such as adopting a balanced diet and increasing physical activity, are also essential in managing and reducing the risk of hypertension,' explained Jones. A WHF member survey across 46 countries showed 65% of the polled healthcare respondents reporting that their patients do not adhere to treatment plans, showing that even once the obstacles of detection and diagnosis are overcome, patients still struggle with maintaining their prescribed regimens. ALSO READ: Gauteng Health welcomes a new batch of counsellors Obstacles to prevention Despite knowing how to prevent and treat high blood pressure, many barriers stand in the way of success. These challenges affect patients and healthcare systems alike. For those diagnosed with hypertension, treatment brings its challenges – medication can be expensive, many people struggle to stay motivated for a condition with no obvious symptoms, there are cultural attitudes that sometimes discourage medical intervention, and daily pill routines can be complicated to maintain. ALSO READ: Make this month a healthy love story – Gauteng Health The healthcare systems face obstacles, too, including limited resources for widespread blood pressure screening; equipment shortages and inaccurate measurements; healthcare workers might have poor awareness or a misunderstanding of guidelines; and follow-up systems to monitor patient progress are often inadequate. With proper awareness of these challenges, patients and healthcare providers can work together to find practical solutions that make hypertension prevention and treatment more accessible for everyone. 'For more than 50 years, Servier has been committed to fighting high blood pressure – the 'silent killer' – that affects millions without warning. 'According to the World Health Organisation, this chronic illness claims over 11 million lives annually, making it humanity's largest epidemic. 'As non-communicable diseases like hypertension continue to rise, it solidifies the importance of collaborative public information campaigns like Because I Say So and May Measurement Month. 'We compel South Africans to take action and check their blood pressure. It has never been more crucial for public health,' says Virosha Deonarain, the medical manager at Servier. South Africans should go to their local pharmacies, clinics, or doctors to get tested for free in May. Find a participating pharmacy in your area and get the test today: At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
12-05-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Know Your Blood Pressure This May Measurement Month
Know Your Blood Pressure This May Measurement Month This May Measurement Month, health experts are sounding the alarm on hypertension (HTN), a condition that affects billions worldwide yet remains dangerously underdiagnosed and undertreated. Alarmingly, a recent study found that 74% of patients are unaware that they are at risk of hypertension or are unaware of their hypertension status. World Hypertension Day is observed on May 17. ALSO READ: Ekurhuleni encourages public to use suggestion boxes at health facilities HTN is the most significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease (in SA. With cardiovascular disease ranking among the top 10 causes of death worldwide, detecting and controlling blood pressure has never been more critical. Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to serious health complications, significantly increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and heart failure. It's also linked to a higher likelihood of developing dementia and can drastically reduce overall quality of life. These consequences contribute to increased mortality and morbidity, underscoring the importance of early detection, treatment and management of high blood pressure. May Measurement Month A public health campaign, Because I Say So is part of a global blood pressure screening initiative, May Measurement Month. Now in its ninth year, this collaborative campaign was initiated in response to the hypertension health crisis. It is led by the International Society of Hypertension, in collaboration with the Southern African Hypertension Society and Servier, among other scientific societies. It is a public call for everyone to get their blood pressure (BP) checked. This non-invasive test takes five minutes, is free during May Measurement Month, and can help save lives. Professor Erika Jones, the president of the Southern African Hypertension Society, said, 'Hypertension is often called the 'silent killer' because it typically has no symptoms until significant damage has occurred. The scale of the problem The statistics, as recorded in 2019, paint a concerning picture: • 4.06 billion adults were affected by high systolic blood pressure; • 1.3 billion adults (30-79 years) were affected by hypertension; • 10.8 million deaths were associated with raised blood pressure; • Approximately 60% of adults develop hypertension by 60 years of age; • Up to 90% of adults living to 80 are likely to develop hypertension; • Hypertension causes over 50% of heart disease, stroke and heart failure cases. SA faces an exceptionally high burden, with the South African Demographic and Health Survey (SADHS) reporting a hypertension prevalence of 46.0% in females and 44.0% in males above 18 years of age. Even more concerning, over 80% of people living with hypertension have uncontrolled blood pressure. This prevalence significantly exceeds the global average of 31.1%. ALSO READ: Ekurhuleni encourages public to use suggestion boxes at health facilities The treatment gap A 'treatment cascade' exists for patients with hypertension. A report by the World Heart Federation (WHF), Roadmap for Hypertension, starts with those with high blood pressure, although many don't even know their status. Of those diagnosed, only a portion receive treatment, and fewer still achieve blood pressure control. Finally, patient adherence remains the biggest challenge. Effective prevention and detection of hypertension require a multi-faceted approach. This includes robust screening policies that include initial blood pressure screenings from the age of 18 and regular follow-ups and opportunistic screenings in various settings like workplaces, schools and community spaces. A WHF member survey across 46 countries showed 65% of the polled healthcare respondents reporting that their patients do not adhere to treatment plans, showing that even once the obstacles of detection and diagnosis are overcome, patients still struggle with maintaining their prescribed regimens. ALSO READ: Media called to action in supporting health services across Ekurhuleni Obstacles to prevention Despite knowing how to prevent and treat high blood pressure, many barriers stand in the way of success. These challenges affect patients and healthcare systems alike. For those diagnosed with hypertension, treatment brings its challenges – medication can be expensive, many people struggle to stay motivated for a condition with no obvious symptoms, there are cultural attitudes that sometimes discourage medical intervention, and daily pill routines can be complicated to maintain. ALSO READ: Teenage pregnancy campaign clarified – Gauteng Health The healthcare systems face obstacles, too, including limited resources for widespread blood pressure screening; equipment shortages and inaccurate measurements; healthcare workers might have poor awareness or a misunderstanding of guidelines; and follow-up systems to monitor patient progress are often inadequate. With proper awareness of these challenges, patients and healthcare providers can work together to find practical solutions that make hypertension prevention and treatment more accessible for everyone. 'For more than 50 years, Servier has been committed to fighting high blood pressure – the 'silent killer' – that affects millions without warning. 'As non-communicable diseases like hypertension continue to rise, it solidifies the importance of collaborative public information campaigns like Because I Say So and May Measurement Month. 'We compel South Africans to take action and check their blood pressure. It has never been more crucial for public health,' says Virosha Deonarain, the medical manager at Servier. South Africans should go to their local pharmacies, clinics, or doctors to get tested for free in May. Find a participating pharmacy in your area and get the test today: At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Teacher from Watford urges everyone to get blood pressure checked
A primary school teacher from Watford who randomly discovered she had hidden high blood pressure has urged people to get checked. Daisy Mpofu, 37, had not checked her blood pressure for around five years and had not thought about doing so until being offered the chance at the school where she works. "Had I not had it checked then I probably would not have identified the fact I had high blood pressure as I just assumed it was still fine," she said. Daisy Mpofu had not checked her blood pressure for around five years and had not thought about doing so until being offered the check at the school where she works. (Image: NHS Hertfordshire and West Essex) Having contacted her GP, Daisy was advised to take blood pressure readings at home over the course of a week and was then prescribed medication which has helped lower her blood pressure into the healthy range. Daisy is now encouraging all her friends to get checked. It comes as the NHS is urging everyone over 40 to 'take a sec to check' their blood pressure during May Measurement Month. High blood pressure, sometimes known as hypertension, usually has no symptoms but can lead to serious and life-threatening conditions like heart attacks and stroke. Anyone over 40 that has not been checked in the last six months can visit one of more than 200 pharmacies across Hertfordshire and west Essex. The NHS says people who are black or South Asian are more likely to be at risk from high blood pressure, "so if this applies to you or your family members, please do come forward for a quick, free and painless check".
