In Cameroon, arterial hypertension claims over 17,000 lives annually, a stark reminder of its pervasive impact. This condition affects approximately one in three adults across the nation. Notably, its prevalence is considerably higher in urban centers such as Yaoundé and Douala, contrasting with the lower rates observed in rural and semi-urban areas. Current data reveals that close to 39% of individuals aged between 25 and 70 years are living with hypertension.
Dr. Djoumessi Romance, a distinguished cardiologist-rhythmologist at the Biyem-Assi District Hospital in Yaoundé, attributes the recent surge in cases to evolving lifestyle choices among the populace. He explains, “Many Cameroonians have embraced diets excessively rich in salt and fats. We also observe a frequent and elevated consumption of alcohol and tobacco. When these factors are combined with genetic predispositions and age, the incidence rate significantly escalates.”
The number of individuals afflicted by this condition runs into the thousands within Yaoundé alone. During our visit, we met an octogenarian, still undergoing treatment, in the Nkolbikok neighborhood of the sixth arrondissement.
Faustin Onana Ebodé, a survivor of a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), shared his harrowing experience: “I narrowly escaped death. That evening, I returned home as usual. Around 10 PM, I felt an intense pressure. Suddenly, I lost the ability to speak, and the entire left side of my body 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 any prior knowledge.”
Key institutions, including the Ministry of Public Health and the Cameroonian Society of Cardiology, consistently issue warnings, emphasizing the critical need for citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles and undergo early screening.
To mitigate the various complications associated with the disease, particularly upon detection, it is strongly advised that individuals have their blood pressure checked at least twice annually.
