Staff Reporter
THE Ministry of Health and Social Services and the World Health Organization (WHO) have called on the public to prioritise regular blood pressure checks and healthy lifestyles as Namibia joins the global commemoration of World Hypertension Day on 17 May.
The day is observed annually to raise awareness about hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, which is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it may present no symptoms until serious complications develop.
According to the ministry, uncontrolled hypertension can lead to life-threatening conditions such as stroke, heart disease, and kidney failure, making early detection and routine screening critical.
The ministry urged the public to regularly monitor their blood pressure, reduce salt intake, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, avoid smoking and harmful alcohol use, and take prescribed medication consistently.
“Visit your nearest health facility for screening and know your numbers today. Early detection saves lives,” the ministry said.
The WHO added that hypertension remains the leading preventable cause of premature death globally, affecting an estimated 1.4 billion people. Despite the availability of effective and affordable treatment, many people remain undiagnosed, and only about one in four patients have their condition properly controlled.
This year’s theme, “Controlling Hypertension Together: check your blood pressure regularly, defeat the silent killer,” emphasises collective responsibility across individuals, communities, health workers, and health systems.
WHO stressed that hypertension can be prevented and managed through healthy living, early diagnosis, and long-term treatment, and called for stronger health systems to improve access to screening and care.
Both institutions highlighted that awareness, routine testing, and sustained treatment are key to reducing complications and preventing premature deaths linked to high blood pressure.
Picture for illustrative purposes only. Photo: health.com
