By James Wekesi
BUNGOMA, Kenya
As the Bungoma county government and health practitioners join the world to mark World Hypertension Day, many Kenyan citizens are struggling to access healthcare due to high costs, while others remain at home unaware of the danger as the disease slowly weakens body tissues.
Speaking during an event at the Bungoma County Referral Hospital, Health and Sanitation Officer David Maling’a Chemayiek highlighted the global theme: “Measure your blood pressure accurately, control it, live longer.”
Chemayiek said the county is committed to strengthening prevention, screening, treatment, and follow-up care for hypertension and other noncommunicable diseases.
He urged healthcare workers to collaborate to prevent complications and protect public health.
“Controlling hypertension together is a shared responsibility of the individual, family, community, and society,” Chemayiek said. “Remember, early treatment will enhance good health, as will a balanced diet.”
He also urged caregivers to ensure patients take their medications exactly as prescribed by doctors to avoid life-threatening complications.
Chemayiek advised patients to eat boiled yams with tea for breakfast to help sustain the body and improve immunity.
Describing hypertension as a dangerous and silent killer, he urged people to visit health facilities for regular screening to eliminate doubt.
The officer promised to ensure resources are properly mobilized to support medical services across the county.
Additionally, the health officer emphasized the importance of regular aerobic exercise to strengthen the heart and lungs, which helps prevent strokes and other disabilities.
