Mr. Daniel Konka, the Director of Health Services for Dormaa Central Municipality, has observed a concerning increase in hypertension, often referred to as the “silent killer.” This condition is causing fatalities without individuals being aware of their health status. He emphasized the importance of knowing one’s health status and taking proactive measures to mitigate the potential threat posed by hypertension.
Mr. Konka highlighted that hypertension is a silent killer, rapidly affecting many individuals. He stressed that the initial step in addressing this issue is for everyone to ascertain their health status by undergoing medical examinations at hospitals. He took the opportunity to encourage citizens to utilize the recently introduced Free Primary Health Care policy, which involves health professionals visiting households for medical screenings. These screenings are crucial in identifying risk factors for developing Non-Communicable Diseases, allowing for immediate medical intervention to prevent potential harm. He emphasized that widespread health screenings can help manage hypertension cases and ultimately save lives.
Mr. Daniel Konka revealed that hypertension is influenced by two types of risk factors: modifiable and non-modifiable.
He explained that modifiable risk factors encompass excessive salt intake, excessive consumption of oily foods, insufficient intake of fruits and vegetables, excessive use of tobacco and alcohol, and physical inactivity, among others. These factors can be altered by ceasing their use or consumption, increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables, and engaging in regular physical exercise to mitigate the risk of developing hypertension.
Furthermore, he stated that non-modifiable risk factors include old age, a family history of hypertension, and pre-existing conditions such as kidney problems and diabetes, which significantly increase the likelihood of hypertension.
Mr. Daniel Konka further noted that urbanization has increased our exposure to risk factors, such as the scarcity of healthy vegetables and fruits in the market, and the prevalence and consumption of canned foods and drinks, among other factors. These elements are significantly contributing to hypertension, even though some individuals are engaging in regular physical activities.
