African nations are urged by WHO to address the causes of hypertension.

The appeal to observe World Hypertension Day in 2023 with the subject "Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, and Live Longer" was issued by Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa.

"African governments can set the example by putting their commitments into practice through policies and programs that address the underlying causes of hypertension," she said.

"The project promotes healthy settings and expands access to healthcare services if it is put into practice.

This will necessitate substantial investments in healthcare infrastructure, healthcare worker training, and expanding access to reasonably priced drugs.

According to her, the purpose of the day is to raise awareness about the low level of knowledge about hypertension and the scarcity of calibrated devices for precise blood pressure monitoring.

"The symptoms are typically warning signs of damage to particular organs in the body, including the heart, brain, eyes, and kidneys," she said.
She claims that in the African region, just 25% of persons with hypertension who are between the ages of 30 and 79 years old are taking medication.

Moeti said that just 11% of individuals taking medication were able to maintain adequate blood pressure control.

"Hypertension is a significant contributor to the premature mortality from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) associated with cardiovascular illnesses (CVDs), including heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.

"There are safe and affordable treatments for hypertension, including pharmacologic and behavioral change interventions," she noted. Hypertension is also easily diagnosed.

She said that using its Package of Essential Noncommunicable Disease Interventions for primary healthcare, the WHO has prioritized decentralized management and care for non-communicable diseases, particularly the management of hypertension.

She stated that in order to promote more access to reliable and cheap blood pressure equipment, WHO has also produced advice on the technical specification for automated blood pressure monitoring systems.

We must frequently check our blood pressure and, if it is elevated, take drugs as directed by a doctor. "We can combat hypertension, but the onus is on us as individuals and as a society to take charge of our health and wellbeing."

"We need to adopt healthy lifestyles, such as reducing salt intake, increasing portions of fruits and vegetables, increasing physical activity, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption," added Moeti.

She claimed that a multi-sectoral strategy was necessary for the effective prevention and control of hypertension.

In order to address the socioeconomic determinants of hypertension, she claims that the strategy will entail cooperation between the health sector and other sectors, such as education, finance, and agriculture.

According to the director, healthy eating initiatives and increased physical activity can be adopted in schools.

She emphasized the value of routine screening at all levels of the health care system and the need for calibrated, certified blood pressure measurement equipment in all healthcare facilities.

For the management of hypertension, particularly at the primary level, Moeti recommended having access to quality-assured medications and a reliable system for gathering data to track treatment and care results.A multifaceted strategy involving the cooperation of individuals, communities, and governments is necessary to combat hypertension in Africa.

To join the international effort to fight hypertension and its associated health implications, she stated, "We must work together."

She asserts that people may prevent and control hypertension and enhance the health and wellbeing of millions of Africans by taking action.

(NAN)