High Blood Pressure Is Rising Among Nigeria’s Youth – Here’s What You Can Do

By Dr. Ikechukwu Alex Okoli

When you hear “high blood pressure”, you probably think of your parents or grandparents. “It doesn’t concern me now” you may think. But here’s the truth: more and more young Nigerians in their 20s and 30s are developing it. In Enugu state, about one in five young adults already have high blood pressure, while almost half are on the edge of hypertension.

A study across Abia, Oyo, and Kano states found that nearly 18 percent of young adults have hypertension. This means that in almost every circle of friends, someone is living with high blood pressure, often without even knowing it.

That’s the scary and risky part. High blood pressure is called the silent killer because most people feel fine until something serious happens, a stroke, kidney failure, or even sudden death. Imagine a 28-year-old breadwinner succumbing to a preventable stroke or a preventable death; families lose stability, children lose support, and dreams are cut short.

But here’s the good news: young people are not powerless. High blood pressure is one of the easiest health problems to detect and control and the earlier you take action, the better your chances of living a long, healthy life.

What You Can Do

Know your numbers

Don’t wait until you feel sick. Get your blood pressure checked at least once a year. Screening is often free at health centres, pharmacies, and community programmes. A quick check today could save your life tomorrow.

Cut back on salt

We love our suya, noodles, and processed snacks, but too much salt raises blood pressure. Reduce seasoning cubes, salty snacks, and processed foods. Choose fresh meals whenever you can and your heart, kidneys and brain will sing your praise.

Move your body

You don’t need a gym membership. Walk, cycle, dance, or play football for at least 30 minutes a day. Regular physical activity strengthens your heart and keeps your blood pressure in check. Even small efforts such as taking the stairs or walking short distances make a big difference.

Watch your alcohol intake and avoid smoking

Alcohol and smoking are major triggers for high blood pressure. If you must drink, do so in moderation. And if you smoke, quitting is one of the best gifts you can give yourself, not a new car! Quitting not only lowers your risk of hypertension but also improves your health and overall energy.

Manage stress

From exams to job hunting to traffic, stress is a constant part of Nigerian life. But chronic stress raises blood pressure and affects your mental health. Learn to cope: exercise, talk to friends, pray, meditate, or simply take breaks. Managing stress is protecting your health.

Take medicines if prescribed

If a doctor prescribes medication for high blood pressure, don’t stop taking it because you “feel fine.” The medicine works quietly in the background, protecting your heart, brain, and kidneys. Skipping doses or stopping treatment can be dangerous.

Why It Concerns You…..Now

Nigeria has signed up to global health goals, including reducing premature deaths from diseases like high blood pressure by one-third by 2030. But no national plan will succeed unless young people take charge of their own health.

That means:

• Encouraging your friends to check their blood pressure.
• Using your social media platforms to share reliable health information.
• Demanding better healthcare access and affordable medicines from leaders.

This change can’t come from government policies alone. Young Nigerians must play their part by choosing healthier lifestyles, getting regular health checks, and normalising conversations about wellness. Young people are the heartbeat of Nigeria, our students, our workers, and our future leaders. But high blood pressure is stealing too many bright futures too soon.

The choice is ours: ignore this silent killer until it strikes, or take small, consistent steps now to protect ourselves. Knowing your blood pressure values, eating smarter, staying active, raising awareness and seeking help when needed are simple actions that save lives today and for tomorrow.

Protect your health. Protect your future. Start today.

Dr Alex Okoli is a Physician & Public Health Advocate in Nigeria