The Head of the National Cardiothoracic Centre, Professor Alfred Doku, has raised concerns over the growing impact of hypertension on cardiovascular health in Ghana, describing the condition as a major silent risk factor.
According to Prof. Doku, about 70% of Ghanaians living with hypertension are unaware that they have the condition, leaving many at risk of serious complications.
He made the remarks in Accra during a press launch of the 2026 World Heart Day, where he highlighted the need for greater awareness, early detection and effective management of high blood pressure.
Prof. Doku said hypertension has become the leading driver of cardiovascular diseases in the country, with many people going about their daily activities without realising that their blood pressure is dangerously high.
“We are getting a lot more people with hypertension. Indeed, the number one driver of cardiovascular diseases is hypertension. Most people are not aware that they are hypertensive,” he said.
Few Patients Have Their Blood Pressure Under Control
Prof. Doku further expressed concern about the treatment and control of hypertension among those who are aware of their condition.
He said only a small proportion of those who know they have hypertension are receiving medication, while an even smaller number have their blood pressure adequately controlled.
“Over 70 percent of Ghanaians with hypertension are not aware of their condition. Those who are aware, only a few of them are on medication, and those on medication, only a few of them have their blood pressure controlled,” he stated.
He linked the situation to the rising burden of cardiovascular diseases, stroke and kidney failure in Ghana.
“This is what is driving the heart diseases. This is what is driving the stroke, and this is what is driving the kidney failure in Ghana,” he added.
The Silent Nature of Hypertension
The cardiothoracic specialist explained that one of the major dangers associated with hypertension is that it often does not produce noticeable symptoms.
He warned that people may therefore live with dangerously high blood pressure for years without knowing it until serious complications occur.
“You don’t feel anything when you have hypertension. So people can go about their daily activities without knowing that they have very high blood pressure,” Prof. Doku cautioned.
He also pointed to changing lifestyles as an important factor contributing to the growing prevalence of the condition.
His comments underscore the importance of regular blood pressure checks, early diagnosis and proper management as part of efforts to reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases in Ghana.
