Kirinyaga County joined the global community in marking World Hypertension Day with a strong call for regular blood pressure screening and lifestyle changes to combat the rising burden of hypertension. The event, held at Jevanjee Gardens in Kerugoya, was anchored on this year’s theme: “Measure your blood pressure accurately, control it, live longer.”
County Director of Health Services Dr. Esbon Gakuo emphasized the silent yet deadly nature of hypertension, revealing that over 80,000 people in Kirinyaga are living with the condition, but only 17,000 are currently accessing care. “Many people are unaware they have hypertension until severe complications such as stroke or death occur,” Dr. Gakuo warned.
In 2024 alone, Kirinyaga reported 3,760 new hypertension cases, an increase from 2,998 the previous year—highlighting the growing public health concern. Poor diets, sedentary lifestyles, alcohol consumption, and tobacco use were cited as major contributors to the surge.
Recognizing the severity, the county has rolled out a comprehensive response. Governor Anne Waiguru’s administration has integrated blood pressure monitoring in over 75 health facilities and established specialized hypertension clinics in Kerugoya, Kimbimbi, Kianyaga, and Sagana Level 4 hospitals. The county allocates over Kshs. 83 million annually to non-communicable diseases, with Kshs. 58 million earmarked specifically for hypertension management.
Waiguru has also launched initiatives to promote healthier lifestyles, including a fish farming project to increase access to white meat as a healthier protein alternative. She continues to encourage residents to adopt balanced diets, reduce salt intake, quit smoking, cut down on alcohol, and engage in regular physical activity.
Community Health Promoters (CHPs) have been instrumental in extending screening services to villages, enabling early detection at the grassroots level. CHP Alice Muriuki, who has lived with hypertension for 15 years, shared her testimony: “With regular medication and medical guidance, I’ve managed the condition well. I urge others to get screened.”
Ruth Wanjiku, a 58-year-old resident of Kerugoya, also shared her experience. “I initially ignored my diagnosis, but after receiving education at Kerugoya Referral Hospital, I now understand the importance of treatment and never miss a dose.”
Nationally, hypertension affects 24% of the population, with 29.2% of men and 27.9% of women impacted. However, 78% of diagnosed individuals do not receive treatment, underscoring the urgent need for awareness, screening, and access to care.
Kirinyaga County’s observance of World Hypertension Day not only highlighted the local burden but also underscored the power of preventive healthcare in fighting non-communicable diseases.
Written By Rodney Mbua
