Hypertension is often called the “silent killer,” and for good reason. According to the Heart Foundation, 13% of all lives globally yet rarely shows a symptom until it is too late. In South Africa, one in three adults are living with high blood pressure. It is the invisible force behind half of all strokes and 40% of heart attacks, yet it remains one of our most overlooked health threats.
The face of hypertension is changing
Once considered an age-related ailment, the condition is now surging among South Africans aged 15 to 24. Within our nation, the first decade of the millennium saw a doubling of the prevalence rate among adolescents and young adults, driven heavily by lifestyle factors.
The good news is that hypertension is also one of the most manageable chronic conditions when detected early. Most young patients are asymptomatic and diagnosed during screening or when presenting with an unrelated condition. Unfortunately, the disease remains widely undiagnosed, highlighting the urgent need for increased awareness, regular screening and preventative care.
In recognition of World Hypertension Day, observed in May, South Africans are encouraged to take simple but meaningful steps towards understanding and managing their blood pressure.
“Hypertension does not always announce itself,” says Damian McHugh, Chief Marketing Officer at Momentum Health. “People can feel completely healthy while underlying damage is already taking place. Early detection allows one to take control before serious complications arise, improving both quality of life and long-term health outcomes.”
The hidden impact beyond health
While the medical risks of hypertension are well documented, its broader impact on households is not thought of, until the very moment of impact. Managing advanced chronic illness can lead to ongoing treatment costs, reduced productivity, and increased financial pressure on families.
Preventative healthcare, including routine screenings and lifestyle interventions, plays a critical role in reducing these risks. Small behavioural changes such as improved nutrition, regular physical activity, stress management, and adherence to treatment plans, can significantly lower the likelihood of severe complications.
According Resaf, shocking 91.1% of people with hypertension are either unscreened, undiagnosed, untreated, or have uncontrolled blood pressure. Only 8.9% have their blood pressure adequately controlled.
Supporting prevention through accessible tools
Digital health tools and wellness incentives are increasingly helping individuals monitor and manage their health more proactively. By combining screening, personalised health insights, and rewards that encourage healthier behaviours, preventative care becomes more accessible and achievable in everyday life.
“Prevention works best when people feel supported,” adds McHugh. “When individuals have access to tools, information and incentives that encourage healthy choices, they are more likely to stay engaged in managing their wellbeing.”
This approach reflects a broader shift in healthcare towards proactive, person-centred solutions that prioritise wellbeing rather than reacting only when illness occurs.
A simple step that can make a lasting difference
Checking blood pressure is quick, painless and widely available at pharmacies, clinics and healthcare providers. Yet many South Africans do not test regularly, often underestimating their personal risk.
Momentum Health encourages individuals to use World Hypertension Day as a reminder to:
- Check their blood pressure regularly.
- Understand their personal risk factors.
- Consult healthcare professionals when readings are elevated.
- Make gradual lifestyle adjustments that support heart health.
- Engage with available health and wellness benefits.
“Knowing your numbers is one of the simplest actions you can take for your health,” says McHuge. “A single check could prevent years of complications.”