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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.