Hypertension, often dubbed the silent killer, tragically claims over 17,000 lives annually across Cameroon. This pervasive condition affects approximately one in three adults, with a notably higher prevalence observed 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 grapple with elevated blood pressure.

Dr. Djoumessi Romance, a distinguished rhythmologist cardiologist at the Biyem-Assi district hospital in Yaoundé, attributes the recent surge in cases to evolving lifestyle trends adopted by many Cameroonians. “Citizens have embraced diets excessively rich in salt and fats. We also see frequent, high-level consumption of alcohol and tobacco,” Dr. Romance explained. “When combined with genetic predispositions and advancing age, the incidence curve becomes significantly steep.”

Thousands of individuals are battling this condition in Yaoundé alone. During our reporting, we encountered an octogenarian patient in the Nkolbikok neighborhood, still undergoing treatment for hypertension.

Faustin Onana Ebodé recounted his terrifying experience with 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 my wife, who is a nurse and quickly rushed me to the hospital. I was, in fact, suffering from hypertension without even realizing it.”

Institutions such as the Ministry of Public Health and the Cameroonian Society of Cardiology are consistently issuing 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 is crucial for detecting the disease early and preventing its various severe complications.