Hypertension Rates Soar in South Africa

May 16 - The growing number of South Africans who develop hypertension in the country has led to  professionals warning citizens to have appropriate financial cover.

Dr. Dominique Stott, speaking for PPS Financial Services, said that a drastic change in lifestyle among South Africans, led by urbanisation and a more western diet, could be the cause of what is known in medical circles as "the silent killer".

Around 25% of all men and 15% of adult women are thought to be suffering from hypertension, with those over 50 and with a family history of the condition more prone to developing it.

Professionals paint a frightening picture for sufferers. After the first symptom, which is usually a stroke, the patient's organs will be affected. "In the brain, it can lead to dementia, in the eyes to reduced vision or blindness, in the kidneys to organ failure and in the heart to an enlarged heart and lunge disease," said Stott.

Black people are more prone to hypertension related chronic kidney failure. In a six year study, hypertension was the cause of this condition among 34.6% of blacks but only 4.3% of whites.

The Importance of Financial Cover

Dr. Stott could not stress more the importance of taking out proper cover for hypertension and related conditions.

"For anyone who may be at risk of developing hypertension, it is essential to ensure that they have some form of life cover as early as possible, as the onset of the diseases commonly leads to a loading of premium or decline in life and other risk benefits," said Stott.

How to Prevent Hypertension

Men should be checked for hypertension once a year, and women every two years. Those who have a family history of the condition should be checked more often.

Patients should adopt a healthy lifestyle by exercising more, eating more fruit and vegetables, reducing alcohol and decreasing salt in their diet.