The Gauteng Department of Health has expressed concern over the increasing number of hypertension diagnoses among adults under the age of 45.
The department observed World Hypertension Day on Sunday, 17 May, under the theme “Controlling Hypertension Together”.
Spokesperson Steve Mabona provided an overview of the province’s hypertension statistics.
“During the 2025/26 financial year, from April 2025 to March 2026, Gauteng recorded 69,125 new hypertension cases across the province. Of these, 26,088 cases were recorded among adults aged between 18 and 44,” Mabona explained.
He also attributed the prevalence of high blood pressure to unhealthy lifestyle habits.
“Contributing factors include unhealthy eating habits, obesity, lack of physical exercise, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption,” he outlined.
According to Mabona, the department is concerned that a significant number of residents are still unaware of their blood pressure status, leading to late diagnoses and severe complications such as strokes and heart attacks in some cases.
The department has vowed to intensify its awareness campaigns beyond World Hypertension Day and encouraged residents to present themselves for screening.
Furthermore, Mabona recommended several health tips to reduce the risk of hypertension.
“Residents are encouraged to exercise regularly, reduce salt intake, stop smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Individuals diagnosed with hypertension are advised to take their medication as prescribed by healthcare professionals and adhere to treatment plans to effectively manage the condition. Residents can also make use of the Central Chronic Medicine Dispensing and Distribution Programme to collect chronic medication closer to their homes and reduce waiting times at healthcare facilities. Visit your nearest healthcare facility to register on the CCMDD system,” Mabona added.
