CARDIOLOGY DIVISION MARKS WORLD HYPERTENSION DAY, ADVOCATES EARLY DETECTION AND HEALTHY LIFESTYLE
Posted On: 2026-07-03 11:27:41
COOUTH CARDIOLOGY DIVISION MARKS WORLD HYPERTENSION DAY, ADVOCATES EARLY DETECTION AND HEALTHY LIFESTYLE. The Department of Cardiology, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka, on Monday, 18th May 2026, marked the 2026 World Hypertension Day with a health awareness programme aimed at sensitizing the public on the dangers of hypertension and the importance of early detection and proper management. The event was led by the Head of Department, Prof. Innocent Okoye, who noted that South-East Nigeria records one of the highest burdens of hypertension cases in the country, making continuous public education and preventive healthcare very essential. During the outreach held at the Specialist Out-Patient Department (SOPD), the cardiology team educated patients on the causes and risk factors of hypertension, including excessive salt intake, unhealthy diets, obesity, stress, alcohol consumption, smoking, lack of regular exercise, and hereditary predisposition. They further highlighted complications such as stroke, heart failure, kidney disease, and sudden death, stressing that hypertension is often called a “silent killer” because it may show no obvious symptoms until serious damage has occurred. The team encouraged lifestyle modifications such as balanced diet, regular physical activity, weight control, reduced salt intake, stress management, and adherence to prescribed medications. The department also emphasized the importance of routine blood pressure checks and regular hospital visits for early detection and proper management of the condition. Patients and members of the public were encouraged to utilize COOUTH, where specialists are available to provide expert care, guidance, and long-term management of cardiovascular diseases. According to the team, consistent monitoring and early intervention remain key to preventing complications and extending life expectancy. The Cardiology Department reaffirmed its commitment to continuous public enlightenment and preventive cardiology, noting that community awareness remains a critical tool in reducing the growing burden of hypertension-related illnesses in the region.
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COOUTH Amaku, Awka