A Voice for Stroke Survivors

As someone living with hypertension in Nigeria, one of the biggest challenges I have faced is the lack of awareness and access to early prevention. Many people do not routinely check their blood pressure because hypertension often shows no symptoms until complications occur. Before i had my stroke , avoiding risk factors was difficult because there was little public education about healthy lifestyles, regular screening, stress management, and the dangers of untreated high blood pressure. Managing hypertension day-to-day is also challenging due to the high cost of healthcare and medications. In Nigeria, many people pay out of pocket for treatment, and the prices of blood pressure drugs, laboratory tests, and hospital visits can be difficult to sustain, especially during periods of economic hardship. Sometimes, patients skip medications or appointments because of financial constraints. Another challenge is maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Healthy food options are often expensive, while s...

  Good day everyone, Today, as we mark World Hypertension Day, we come together with one voice and one purpose — to raise awareness about hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, a silent killer affecting millions of people across the world. Hypertension does not always show signs or symptoms, yet it can lead to stroke, heart failure, kidney disease, blindness, and sudden death if not properly managed. Many people are walking around with high blood pressure without even knowing it. That is why today is very important. As a stroke survivor and advocate, I understand the pain, fear, and challenges that come with non-communicable diseases. Through the work of the Michael and Francisca Foundation, we continue to educate communities, support survivors, and encourage people to know their numbers — check your blood pressure, know your blood sugar level, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and seek medical help early. Today’s message is simple: Prevention is better than cu...