*●Dr Udora: Poor lifestyle, salt, stress driving cases; urges regular BP checks
A consultant cardiologist has raised alarm over the growing prevalence of hypertension among young adults in Nigeria, warning that the “silent killer” is now being diagnosed in people as young as 18.
Dr Nneka Udora of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital spoke Thursday in Awka while discussing the rising burden of hypertension and its implications for cardiovascular health.
—Hypertension strikes earlier, often undetected—
Udora described hypertension as a “silent killer,” noting that many people living with the condition experience no noticeable symptoms until serious complications arise.
According to her, hypertension occurs when blood pressure readings consistently exceed 140/90 millimetres of mercury, increasing the risk of stroke, heart attack, kidney failure and other cardiovascular diseases that significantly affect quality of life.
“Poorly managed hypertension could lead to severe complications,” the cardiologist warned, stressing that the condition continues to affect millions worldwide, including a growing number of young adults.
—Lifestyle, diet, stress blamed—
Udora explained that controlling hypertension largely depends on lifestyle changes and adherence to healthy habits that reduce exposure to major risk factors.
She identified heredity, physical inactivity, unhealthy eating habits, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking and prolonged stress as key factors driving the surge among young Nigerians.
—Call for routine checks, awareness—
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The cardiologist urged Nigerians to make regular blood pressure checks a routine part of healthcare and to adopt healthier lifestyles to minimize risk.
“To prevent and control hypertension, people should maintain healthy eating habits, reduce salt intake, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, engage in regular physical activity and manage stress effectively,” Udora said.
She added that increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, alongside other healthy lifestyle practices, could significantly reduce the risk of hypertension and related cardiovascular diseases.
Udora also called for sustained public awareness campaigns and early health screenings to curb the growing incidence of hypertension, particularly among young people, and promote healthier communities.
