Hypertension, commonly called high blood pressure and also referred to as ‘the silent killer’, is no longer just an adult disease (for people above 65 years old). In recent years, Ghanaian hospitals have seen a steady rise in cases of adolescent hypertension, a condition once rare in young people. What’s even more alarming is that many of these teenagers are unaware they are living with dangerously high blood pressure levels. For that matter, many adolescent hypertensives are less recognized and underdiagnosed.
In my daily work as a nurse, I have encountered several cases of young people, some as young as 15, coming to the hospital with headaches, blurred vision, or fatigue, only to find their blood pressure is far above the normal range. These aren’t isolated incidents. Studies and facility records suggest this is a growing public health issue, often going unnoticed by both parents and schools.
The causes are both lifestyle-related and systemic:
Poor diet: Increased consumption of salty snacks, sugary drinks, and fast foods is common among school-going adolescents. Lack of physical activity: With more time spent on phones and in front of screens, physical exercise is minimal. Stress: Academic pressure, family issues, or even bullying can silently affect young people’s health. Obesity and genetics: Children from families with a history of hypertension are more likely to develop it early, especially if overweight.
Unfortunately, many parents and teachers still see hypertension as an “adult problem.” That assumption delays diagnosis and treatment. Hypertension in adolescents often goes undetected because it presents few or no symptoms. However, over time, it can cause damage to the heart, kidneys, and brain. If untreated, it increases the risk of stroke, kidney failure, and heart disease—even before the age of 30.
What can we do?
Routine Screening in Schools: School health programs should include blood pressure checks. Parental Awareness: Parents should take their teens for annual check-ups. Healthy Lifestyle Campaigns: Promote exercise, good diets, and stress management. Policy and Support: National education and health policies must support adolescent health. Media Campaign: The healthcare workers can utilize the traditional and social media spaces to maximize awareness and preventive warnings
Healthcare workers, including doctors and nurses, must lead on the frontline in the battle. We can initiate BP checks, educate, and advocate for screening protocols. This issue is nationwide, affecting youth from many places in the country, especially in the teaching hospitals and the urban communities.
Adolescent hypertension is not a future problem; it is here, now, and growing quietly. If we act today, we can prevent a generation from suffering avoidable heart disease and disability.
Let us raise awareness, encourage check-ups, and push for policies that protect our youth. As a nation, we cannot afford to ignore the silent health battles being fought by our young people.
Author Bio:
Emmanuel Kofi Boadi is a registered nurse, nurse researcher, and nurse manager at Powerhouse Hospital, Old Tafo – Kumasi. He is also a post-graduate student reading Master of Philosophy in Nursing at the Garden City University, Kenyasi, Kumasi. He is passionate about adolescent health, hypertension, preventive care, and community health education through writing.
By: Emmanuel K.B., RGN, Nurse Researcher (Powerhouse Hospital, Old Tafo)
