INTRODUCTION
Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a major public health issue with an estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 years diagnosed with the condition worldwide [1,2]. It is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, stroke, kidney failure, and premature mortality. The prevalence of hypertension has been steadily increasing, largely due to changes in lifestyle, diet, and an aging population. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hypertension affects 27% of the adult population in sub-Saharan Africa [2,3]. Rwanda is no exception.
Hypertension affects 16% of adults in Rwanda and adds to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), putting more pressure on the health system [4]. The condition often remains undiagnosed and untreated due to limited awareness and insufficient screening programs.
This report aims to present the current state of hypertension in Rwanda, and associated mortality. By understanding the factors contributing to the rise of hypertension in Rwanda, policymakers and healthcare providers can better design targeted interventions to reduce its mortality and impact on the health system.
METHODS
This study employed a dual-data approach to analyze hypertension in Rwanda. For prevalence
