Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire - On September 30, 2026, health experts gathered for a panel discussion on the importance of early screening for hypertension, organized by the Orange Foundation on the occasion of World Heart Day. Professor Kramo Euloge, Director of the Abidjan Institute of Cardiology (ICA), stressed that early detection of hypertension at primary healthcare facilities is crucial to prevent severe complications. He emphasized that taking blood pressure readings should become a routine practice in all healthcare centers.
According to Professor Kramo Euloge, hypertension is a silent disease that often goes undetected until severe complications arise, such as heart attacks or strokes. He warned that in Côte d'Ivoire, 50-70% of patients are unaware of their condition, earning hypertension the nickname "silent killer." The ICA Director urged healthcare providers to make blood pressure checks a standard procedure for all patients visiting healthcare facilities, regardless of the reason for their visit.
Professor Kramo Euloge explained that if hypertension is detected early and managed properly, complications can be avoided. He noted that prompt treatment within six hours of a heart attack can significantly reduce damage to the heart. Delaying treatment, however, can lead to long-term damage and complications. His remarks underscored the importance of timely interventions in managing hypertension.
Dr. Ané Ambroise, representing the World Health Organization (WHO), advised adopting healthy habits and monitoring blood pressure regularly. He suggested that individuals should be as mindful of their blood pressure readings as they are of their date of birth. Dr. Ambroise encouraged people to engage in physical activity, choose nutritious food, and manage their emotions to maintain a healthy heart.
Dr. Adouéni Katché Valéry, Coordinator of the National Program for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases (PNPMNT), praised the ICA's strategy of training cardiologists to provide comprehensive care across the country. He welcomed the Ivoirian government's decision to include hypertension and diabetes in the Universal Health Coverage (CMU) package, which will ensure that medications and certain tests for these conditions are covered.
The integration of hypertension and diabetes into the CMU package is expected to help Côte d'Ivoire achieve its sustainable development goals, particularly reducing premature deaths from non-communicable diseases by 30% by 2030. Dr. Adouéni also announced that efforts are underway to include other conditions, such as cancer, sickle cell disease, and hemophilia, in the CMU package.
The experts' recommendations and the government's initiatives aim to address the growing burden of hypertension and other non-communicable diseases in Côte d'Ivoire. By promoting early screening, healthy habits, and comprehensive care, the country hopes to reduce the risks associated with hypertension and improve the overall health and well-being of its population.
Key points
- Early detection of hypertension at primary healthcare facilities is crucial to prevent severe complications.
- 50-70% of patients in Côte d'Ivoire are unaware of their hypertension condition.
- The Ivoirian government has integrated hypertension and diabetes into the Universal Health Coverage package to reduce premature deaths from non-communicable diseases.
