Hypertension, often referred to as a silent killer, claims over 17,000 lives annually across Cameroon. This pervasive health issue affects approximately one in three adults nationwide. Its prevalence is notably higher in urban centers, particularly within the bustling cities of Yaoundé and Douala, compared to rural and semi-urban areas. Current statistics reveal that close to 39% of individuals aged between 25 and 70 years are living with hypertension.
Dr. Djoumessi Romance, a rhythmologist cardiologist at the Biyem-Assi District Hospital in Yaoundé, attributes the recent surge in cases to evolving lifestyle choices adopted by many citizens. He emphasized that Cameroonians have embraced diets excessively rich in salt and fats. Additionally, frequent and elevated consumption of alcohol and tobacco are recognized contributors. These factors, combined with genetic predispositions and age, significantly amplify the risk, leading to a dramatic increase in the number of affected individuals.
Thousands of patients are grappling with this condition in Yaoundé alone. During my reporting, I encountered an octogenarian, Faustin Onana Ebodé, still undergoing treatment in the Nkolbikok neighborhood, located in the city’s sixth district. Mr. Ebodé recounted his harrowing experience after suffering a cerebrovascular accident (CVA).
“I narrowly escaped death,” he shared. “That day, I returned home as usual. Around 10 PM, I felt an intense pressure. Instantly, I lost the ability to speak, and my entire left side became unresponsive. My life was saved thanks to my wife, a nurse, who swiftly rushed me to the hospital. I was, in fact, suffering from hypertension without any prior knowledge.”
Public health bodies, including the Ministry of Public Health and the Cameroonian Society of Cardiology, consistently issue warnings, urging citizens to modify their lifestyles and undergo early screening. They stress the critical importance of proactive measures in combating this widespread health challenge.
To prevent the various complications associated with hypertension, particularly upon early detection, medical professionals strongly advise checking blood pressure at least twice a year.
