You may be on top and collapse – Doctor advises men who refuse to take hypertension medications

Hypertension remains a significant public health issue in Ghana, affecting over a quarter of the adult population.

In order to raise awareness and promote hypertension prevention, detection and control, men are urged to take their hypertensive health issues seriously and adhere to their medication regimens.

Approximately 27% of Ghanaian adults are reported to have hypertension, with similar rates in rural and urban areas.

Only about 35% of individuals with hypertension are aware of their condition, and merely 6% have their blood pressure under control. The prevalence of the disease is said to be higher in the coastal communities.

Common risk factors contributing to hypertension in Ghana include, Obesity, Physical Inactivity, Unhealthy Diet and Old Age.

Experts are concerned some men discontinue treatment with complaints that the medication affects their sexual activity, which can result in untimely deaths.

Head of Cardiology at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital Dr. Alfred Doku, encourages men to consult for suitable treatment options.

“There are alternative medications available that may not impact sexual activity. So, I will encourage all men to consult with healthcare experts to find suitable treatment options, which will enable them to live longer for themselves and their families. You may be on top and collapse and die so it must be taken seriously,’’ he encouraged.

The Greater Accra Regional Health Directorate held an awareness event about the importance of managing hypertension, at the Mamprobi polyclinic on May 22, engaging the general public to promote healthy lifestyles to prevent complications.

The Greater Accra Regional Director of Health Services Dr. Robert Amesiya wants the general public to take the disease more seriously.

“Hypertension is a silent killer and so I will encourage everyone to at least check their hypertensive status once a year. And religiously take their medications,’’ he urged.

Ghana faces a substantial burden of hypertension, emphasizing the need for increased awareness, prevention, and control measures to mitigate its impact.

The post You may be on top and collapse – Doctor advises men who refuse to take hypertension medications first appeared on 3News.

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