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Public Health Interventions for Hypertension in Africa: A Case Study in Nigeria

Author: Bizimana Rukundo T.
Publisher: NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN MEDICAL SCIENCES (NIJRMS)
Published: 2026
Section: Faculty of Biomedical Sciences

Abstract

Hypertension, often referred to as the "silent killer," is a growing public health challenge in Nigeria, with alarming 
rates of prevalence and significant implications for cardiovascular diseases, stroke, kidney failure, and premature 
mortality. The rising burden of hypertension in Nigeria is fueled by urbanization, unhealthy lifestyles, poor dietary 
habits, lack of physical activity, high alcohol consumption, and tobacco use. Despite its recognition as a critical health 
issue, many Nigerians remain undiagnosed or inadequately treated, especially in rural areas where healthcare access 
is limited. Public health interventions, including awareness campaigns, screening programs, and government 
initiatives, have been implemented to address hypertension, but their effectiveness has been hindered by inadequate 
resources, poor policy implementation, and insufficient healthcare infrastructure. This review evaluates the current 
public health interventions aimed at hypertension control in Nigeria, identifies challenges faced in their 
implementation, and suggests strategies for improvement. By providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses 
of existing programs, this study aims to inform policy, enhance healthcare access, and improve hypertension 
management in Nigeria, offering lessons for other African nations grappling with similar challenges.