Cameroon’s silent threat: navigating the surge in hypertension cases

High blood pressure, often referred to as a silent killer, tragically claims over 17,000 lives annually across Cameroon. This prevalent condition now affects approximately one in three adults nationwide. Notably, its occurrence is significantly higher in urban centers like Yaoundé and Douala compared to rural and semi-urban areas. Current data reveals that nearly 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 increase in cases to evolving lifestyle choices adopted by many citizens. “Cameroonians have embraced diets excessively rich in salt and fats,” he explained. “We also observe frequent and high levels of alcohol and tobacco consumption. When these factors combine with genetic predispositions and age, the incidence curve becomes alarmingly steep.”

Thousands of patients grapple with this condition in Yaoundé alone. During my reporting, I encountered an octogenarian in the Nkolbikok neighborhood, located in the sixth district, who remains under treatment for hypertension.

Faustin Onana Ebodé recounted his harrowing experience after suffering a stroke. “I narrowly escaped death,” he shared. “That day, I returned home as usual. Around 10 PM, I felt an intense pressure. Immediately, I lost the ability to speak, and my entire left side became unresponsive. My life was saved thanks to the swift actions of my wife, a nurse, who rushed me to the hospital. I had been suffering from hypertension without even realizing it.”

Institutions such as the Ministry of Public Health and the Cameroonian Society of Cardiology consistently issue warnings, emphasizing the critical need for Cameroonians to modify their lifestyles and undergo early screening.

Regular blood pressure checks, ideally at least twice a year, are strongly advised. This proactive measure can help detect the disease early and prevent its various severe complications.