Hypertension is on the rise among young Nigerians. Doctors warn that poor diets, stress, and lifestyle choices could spark a national health crisis.
High blood pressure, once considered a condition of the elderly, is increasingly affecting young Nigerians in their 20s and 30s, raising concerns among health experts.
For 28-year-old Chinedu Okeke, a Lagos-based graphics designer, the diagnosis came as a shock.
“I thought hypertension was for older people,” he told News Scope Africa. “But after constant headaches and dizziness, doctors confirmed my blood pressure was dangerously high.”
Medical experts say Chinedu’s story reflects a growing trend. According to Dr. Amina Yusuf, a cardiologist at the National Hospital Abuja, lifestyle changes and stress are major drivers.
“We are seeing more young patients with hypertension, largely because of poor diets, lack of exercise, work-related stress, and even overuse of energy drinks,” she explained.
Recent statistics from the Nigerian Hypertension Society estimate that one in four young adults now lives with high blood pressure, a silent condition that often goes undetected until complications arise.
Fatima Suleiman, a 32-year-old banker in Kano, said long working hours and lack of rest pushed her to the brink.
“I barely sleep six hours, and I depend on coffee to stay awake. When I collapsed at work, doctors told me my blood pressure was too high. That was my wake-up call.”
Nutritionists also link the rise to heavy consumption of fast food and processed meals. Dr. Bode Ajayi, a public health specialist, warned:
“If young people don’t change their eating and fitness habits now, Nigeria risks facing a hypertension epidemic in the next decade.”
The Federal Ministry of Health has urged Nigerians to adopt healthier lifestyles, emphasizing routine checks. In a recent statement, Health Minister Dr. Grace Akinola advised:
“Hypertension is preventable and manageable. We encourage young Nigerians to reduce salt intake, exercise regularly, and check their blood pressure at least once every six months.”
For Chinedu, the experience has been life-changing.
“Now I jog every morning, avoid energy drinks, and monitor my health. I don’t want to live on medication at such a young age,” he said.
As Nigeria battles rising cases of hypertension among its youth, doctors stress the need for awareness, preventive care, and a cultural shift toward healthier living.
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