Hypertension, known as a silent killer, affects approximately 20-30 per cent of adults in Kenya. Women, particularly aged 30 and above, show a high risk of having. According to a data stepwise survey [2015] on NCDs, the prevalence of hypertension was reported to be around 24 percent with a significant increase observed among women in urban areas.
Women aged 50 show the highest rates due to factors like menopause and age-related changes. There is an increase in hypertension cases among women of childbearing age.
Use of contraceptive pills, particularly those containing estrogen and progestin, contributes. Estrogen leads to increased sodium and retention, raising blood pressure, while progestin causes blood vessel constriction. They alter the elasticity of blood vessels and weight gain. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome leads to a hormonal imbalance.
General factors that led to an increase in hypertension cases. Lifestyle changes in increased consumption of processed foods high in salt, sugar and unhealthy fats, and physical inactivity, which reduce cardiovascular health. Financial stress, unemployment, work-family balance issues, burden of childcare, house management and rapid growth of towns leading to overcrowding. The air pollution.
The government should raise awareness and educate the public, improve access to healthcare and its infrastructure.
Women of childbearing age should focus on promoting healthy diets and physical activities. Enhance awareness about pregnancy-related hypertension and contraception risks. Improve access to preventive care and early screening. Integrating hypertension management into maternal and reproductive health programs.
