As the world marks World Hypertension Day 2025 under the theme “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer!”, a startling revelation has come from one of Ghana’s top paediatricians.
Dr. Adeline Asante-Kwabiah, a Paediatrician at the 37 Military Hospital, has disclosed that hypertension is not just an adult disease, but children can suffer from it too, especially those with underlying health conditions.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Dr. Asante-Kwabiah noted that while childhood hypertension is relatively uncommon, it often stems from conditions such as kidney disease. She emphasized that treating the root cause usually improves the child’s blood pressure, but stressed that early detection and strict medical follow-up are critical.
“Parents must ensure that children with hypertension stick to prescribed diets, take their medications as directed, and attend all scheduled medical reviews,” she advised.
Dr. Asante-Kwabiah also raised broader concerns about hypertension in Ghana and globally. Citing World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates, she said 1.28 billion adults aged 30 to 79 live with hypertension, with two-thirds residing in low- and middle-income countries, including Ghana.
In Ghana, research indicates that 1 in 4 adults suffers from high blood pressure, with many unaware of their condition due to the lack of symptoms in early stages.
“Unfortunately, about 46% of people living with hypertension don’t even know it,” she added. “That’s why it’s called a silent killer. The only way to know is to get checked.”
She warned that if left untreated, hypertension could lead to serious complications such as stroke, heart attacks, kidney failure, and even erectile dysfunction.
She stressed that people with existing hypertension must make sustained lifestyle modifications to control the condition and avoid dangerous complications.
“Knowing your blood pressure empowers you to control it and live longer,” she concluded.
As World Hypertension Day highlights the global burden of this silent killer, Ghanaians are encouraged to check their blood pressure regularly, regardless of age, even for children with medical concerns, and take preventive health seriously.
