### Hypertension: a public health issue in Mbandaka
On May 14, 2025, an instructive exchange was held in Mbandaka, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where Dr. Ntuku black, holistic doctor and expert in metabolic diseases, addressed the issues linked to high blood pressure. Approaching World High Arterial Day, on May 17, this information is particularly relevant, both for the medical community and for the general public.
#### Understanding high blood pressure
High blood pressure, often silent condition, can have various origins. Dr. Le Noir highlights two distinct forms: primary hypertension, often hereditary, and secondary hypertension, which stems from other pathologies, health behaviors (such as tobacco or alcohol consumption) and even environmental factors such as stress. This classification is essential to guide screening and prevention strategies.
The consequences of this disease are multiple and potentially serious. As the doctor recalled, hypertension can damage the arteries and cause various health problems, ranging from heart disease to kidney complications. Sexual disorders, alterations of the intellectual faculty and dermatological problems also constitute worrying realities, often underestimated.
### Prevention: an imperative
In his intervention, Dr. Le Noir pleaded for a proactive approach in public health. He recommended regular screening and focused on the importance of regular physical activity, a balanced diet, stress management and avoidance of psychoactive substances. These recommendations join those of the World Health Organization (WHO), which insists on the importance of a healthy lifestyle for the prevention of chronic diseases.
It is essential to wonder if these preventive measures are accessible to everyone, especially in contexts like that of Mbandaka, where socio-economic challenges could hinder the application of healthy life advice. For example, access to quality foods or infrastructure allowing the practice of physical activities can be limited. So is it possible to develop community programs adapted to local realities to raise awareness and support citizens in this preventive approach?
#### A call for collective awareness
Beyond individual actions, this discussion highlights an urgent need for collective awareness on the risks linked to hypertension. Local initiatives should include education on risk factors and preventive measures, while integrating cultural and social perspectives specific to each region. The involvement of educational and health institutions, as well as community leaders, can greatly contribute to better acceptance of these recommendations.
The question remains: how to integrate this knowledge within public health practices in a country like the DRC, where many other health emergencies can sometimes take precedence over issues such as high blood pressure?
#### Conclusion: towards an improvement in health practices
Dr. Le Noir’s reflections and recommendations highlight the importance of a holistic and integrated health approach. While Mbandaka and other localities are preparing for World High Breeding Day, these discussions could serve as a springboard for increased awareness and collective action in favor of public health.
The challenges are real, but they also call innovative solutions. In the end, it is a question of transforming knowledge into action and creating bridges between medical advice, access to care and a better informed population. In this sense, open dialogue and collaboration will be essential keys to promoting long -term positive changes.