High blood pressure, or hypertension, remains a widespread and serious health crisis gripping South Africa, with vast numbers unknowingly facing its dangerous consequences
Dubbed the ‘silent killer’, this condition typically presents no obvious symptoms, allowing it to inflict damage undetected. The relentless pressure quietly strains blood vessels, the heart, kidneys, and eyes, significantly increasing the risk of devastating health events such as strokes, kidney failure, heart attacks, and blindness.
“Many people still believe high blood pressure is an ‘older person’s’ problem,” says Lizeth Kruger, Dis-Chem Clinic Executive. “This is one of the most dangerous myths we need to break. Hypertension is increasingly being diagnosed in young adults, pregnant women, and even teenagers, largely due to unhealthy lifestyles, stress, poor diets, and lack of exercise.”
High blood pressure doesn’t work alone. It is often part of a dangerous trio known as metabolic syndrome, which includes diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity. Together, these conditions create a ticking time bomb for heart disease, strokes, and kidney damage. Unchecked, hypertension silently injures the delicate blood vessels in the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney failure. Similarly, it’s a major contributor to strokes, which are now one of the leading causes of disability in South Africa.
“People need to understand that hypertension can develop quietly, without any warning signs, and by the time it is detected, the damage to the body may already be severe,” adds Kruger. “That’s why routine blood pressure checks are a vital part of preventive healthcare regardless of how old you are or how healthy you feel.”
Hypertension is manageable, but only if detected early. Lifestyle factors such as excessive salt intake, physical inactivity, obesity, alcohol consumption, and chronic stress significantly increase the risk of developing high blood pressure. By adopting healthier habits like regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress—individuals can greatly reduce their risk.
For those already diagnosed, ongoing management is crucial. According to the World Health Organization, studies show that controlled blood pressure can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 35% and stroke by up to 40%. Medication adherence, regular monitoring, and consultation with healthcare providers can prevent serious complications and improve quality of life. Ignoring hypertension or delaying treatment increases the likelihood of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other life-threatening conditions.
“As a country, we need to shift the mindset that health checks are only necessary when you’re sick,” concludes Kruger. “Proactive, regular screenings can save lives and when it comes to blood pressure, early knowledge truly is power.”