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HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE (HBP): WHAT EVERY NIGERIAN ADULT NEEDS TO KNOW High Blood Pressure, often called “BP” is one of the most silent health problems in Nigeria today. Many people are walking around with dangerously high numbers and don’t even know it. That’s why it’s called the silent killer. It affects young adults, older adults, men, women, anyone from 18 years and above. The good news? It can be prevented, detected early, and managed. WHAT EXACTLY IS HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE? Your blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels. When this pressure becomes too high for too long, it damages your heart, kidneys, eyes, and blood vessels. Doctors consider BP high when it is 140/90 mmHg or above. WHY YOU SHOULD PAY ATTENTION: Nigeria has one of the highest rates of hypertension in Africa, and many people don’t know their numbers until complications appear. Reasons why it is common among Nigerians include: Stress (traffic, work pressure, financial worries). Salty diets. Lack of exercise. Obesity. Smoking and alcohol. Family history. Poor health check culture. DOES IT HAVE SYMPTOMS? Most Times, THERE ARE NONE. Many people with high BP feel normal. That is why waiting for symptoms is dangerous. When symptoms appear, it’s already serious and may include: Severe headache, Blurred vision, Chest pain, Tiredness, Shortness of breath. But remember: Most hypertensive people have NO symptoms. Why High Blood Pressure Is Dangerous If not controlled, high BP can lead to: Stroke. Heart attack. Kidney failure. Blindness. Heart failure. Sudden death. These complications are common in Nigeria, but they are preventable. HOW TO PREVENT HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE: Reduce Salt Intake Nigerians often eat too much salt. Aim for no more than 1 teaspoon per day across all foods. Stay Active At least 30 minutes of walking or any exercise 5 days a week. Eat More Natural Foods More vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains. Reduce processed and fast foods. Maintain a Healthy Weight Even losing a little weight helps. Avoid Smoking and Reduce Alcohol Manage Stress Find healthy stress relievers: prayer, rest, walking, music, meditation. THE MOST IMPORTANT TIP: CHECK YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE REGULARLY Don’t wait for sickness. Don’t wait for symptoms. Don’t assume because you’re young, you’re safe. Check your BP at least once a month if you are 18–40. If you’re above 40, overweight, or have a family history, check every week. Home BP machines are affordable. Consider getting one. If your reading is 140/90 or above, see a health professional immediately. Knowing your numbers can save your life.