Hypertension, often referred to as the “silent killer,” is responsible for over 17,000 fatalities annually across Cameroon. This pervasive condition impacts approximately one in three adults nationwide. Notably, its prevalence is considerably higher in urban centers such as Yaoundé and Douala compared to rural and semi-urban localities. Current statistics reveal that nearly 39% of individuals aged between 25 and 70 years are living with hypertension.
Dr. Djoumessi Romance, a distinguished cardiologist and rhythmologist at the Biyem-Assi district hospital in Yaoundé, attributes the escalating number of cases in recent years to evolving lifestyle choices adopted by many citizens. “Cameroonians have embraced diets excessively rich in salt and fats,” he explained. “We also observe frequent, elevated consumption of alcohol and tobacco. When these factors are combined with genetic predispositions and age, the incidence curve becomes alarmingly steep.”
The sheer number of affected individuals is staggering, with thousands residing in Yaoundé alone. During our reporting, we encountered an octogenarian in the Nkolbikok neighborhood, located in the sixth arrondissement, who is still undergoing treatment for the condition.
Faustin Onana Ebodé recounted his harrowing experience after suffering a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), commonly known as a stroke. “I narrowly escaped death,” he testified. “That day, I returned home as usual. Around 10 PM, I felt an intense pressure. Immediately, I lost the ability to speak, and the entire left side of my body became unresponsive. My life was saved thanks to the swift actions of my wife, a nurse, who rushed me to the hospital. I had been suffering from hypertension without even realizing it.”
Institutions such as the Ministry of Public Health and the Cameroonian Society of Cardiology consistently issue warnings, emphasizing the critical need for Cameroonians to modify their lifestyles and undergo early screening.
To proactively prevent the various complications associated with the disease, should it be detected, a blood pressure check at least twice a year is strongly advised.
