Understanding hypertension in Cameroon and how to protect yourself

In Cameroon, hypertension silently claims more than 17,000 lives annually, affecting nearly one in three adults nationwide. The burden is particularly acute in urban centers such as Yaoundé and Douala, where prevalence rates exceed those in rural and semi-urban areas. Data shows that approximately 39% of adults aged 25 to 70 are living with high blood pressure, often without realizing it.

Why are hypertension cases rising in Cameroon?

Dr. Romance Djoumessi, a cardiologist at Biyem-Assi District Hospital in Yaoundé, points to shifting lifestyles as a major driver: «Many Cameroonians now consume diets high in salt and unhealthy fats, combined with frequent alcohol use and smoking. When you add in genetic predispositions and the natural aging process, the risk becomes impossible to ignore», he explains.

A personal story of survival

Faustin Onana Ebodé, an 80-year-old resident of Yaoundé’s Nkolbikok neighborhood, narrowly escaped death after suffering a stroke caused by undiagnosed hypertension. «I came home around 10 p.m. feeling fine, but within minutes, I couldn’t speak and my left side went numb. My wife, a nurse, rushed me to the hospital—if not for her quick action, I wouldn’t be here today. I had no idea I had high blood pressure», he shares.

How to detect and manage hypertension early

Public health authorities and cardiology professionals across Cameroon stress the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring. Checking your blood pressure at least twice a year can help prevent severe complications. They also urge citizens to adopt healthier habits: reduce salt and fat intake, limit alcohol, and avoid tobacco. Early detection and lifestyle changes are key to lowering the silent threat of hypertension.