By Esi-ife Arogundade
World Hypertension Day is observed annually in May, serving as a reminder of the importance of blood pressure awareness and management. This global health initiative carries even more significance as the world continues to adapt to lifestyle changes, rising stress levels, and the increasing prevalence of hypertension.
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a medical condition in which the pressure in the blood vessels remains persistently elevated. The more blood your heart pumps and the narrower your blood vessels, the higher your blood pressure.
While high blood pressure typically does not cause symptoms, it can lead over time to coronary artery disease, stroke, chronic kidney disease, arrhythmia, dementia, heart failure, and other cardiovascular conditions. This symptomless nature—combined with the fact that hypertension is a leading cause of premature death, affecting millions worldwide, including in Nigeria—has earned it the nickname “the silent killer.”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 46 per cent of adults with hypertension are unaware they have the condition. Less than half (42 per cent) are diagnosed and treated, while only about 1 in 5 adults (21 per cent) have their hypertension under control. In Nigeria, the Nigerian Hypertension Society (NHS) estimates that no fewer than 30 per cent of the adult population lives with hypertension. Still, only about 10 per cent of them are currently receiving treatment. Alarmingly, less than 2.5 per cent of Nigerians with hypertension achieve blood pressure control.
Since 2010, one of the global targets for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) has been to reduce the prevalence of hypertension by 33 per cent by 2030. Central to achieving this goal is tackling major risk factors: unhealthy diets—especially those high in sodium (salt), saturated and trans fats—physical inactivity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity.
Sodium is of particular concern. While it is essential for nerve function and fluid balance, excessive sodium intake increases the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. The WHO recommends a daily sodium intake of no more than 2 grams (equivalent to 5 grams of salt), yet global consumption—including Nigeria—exceeds this guideline. In Nigeria, the estimated average daily salt intake is 5.8 grams, which surpasses the WHO’s recommended limit of 2 grams of sodium (or less than 5 grams of salt) per day—equivalent to just one teaspoon.
Highlighting the scale of the problem during a ceremony to mark the 2024 Salt Awareness Week, the Coordinating Minister of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMoHSW), Ali Pate, stated that no less than 10 per cent of cardiovascular disease deaths in Nigeria are linked to excessive sodium consumption.
To address the issue, Nigeria launched a National Sodium Reduction Guideline in April—a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to reduce salt consumption, create a healthier food environment, and prevent cardiovascular disease. The guideline was developed by the FMoHSW with support from Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) and other key local and international partners.
At the launch, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, urged the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to begin enforcing sodium limits. He also called on the food industry to embrace product reformulation, emphasizing that such changes would not undermine profit or commerce but are essential to reducing the national burden of NCDs such as hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
Recognizing where salt hides in our food is critical, as many processed and packaged foods contain high levels of sodium, often without our awareness. CAPPA has therefore urged the Federal Government to expedite the development of regulations aimed at enforcing salt targets in processed and packaged foods.
Furthermore, CAPPA strongly supports the implementation of front-of-pack labelling on food products as an effective strategy to combat excessive salt intake. Clear and concise nutritional information displayed prominently on packaging empowers consumers to make healthier choices. Instead of deciphering complicated ingredient lists and nutrition facts, consumers can quickly assess a product's sodium content at a glance. These labels not only inform consumers but also encourage manufacturers to reduce salt levels in their products. With growing public awareness about the health risks associated with excess sodium, companies may feel pressured to reformulate their recipes—ultimately contributing to a healthier national food supply.
In addition, quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake are vital steps toward better heart health.
Let us take this opportunity to prioritize our health by becoming more aware of our salt consumption. By making conscious, informed choices today, we can work towards a healthier, more balanced future—for ourselves and our communities.
Arogundade is a Healthy Food Advocate at Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA).
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