Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 6, 2026

Hydra, a Computer-Based Platform for Aiding Clinicians in Cardiovascular Analysis and Diagnosis
07:51

Hydra, a Computer-Based Platform for Aiding Clinicians in Cardiovascular Analysis and Diagnosis

Published on: September 26, 2018

2026 ISH guidelines for the management of hypertension in Africa: the International Society of Hypertension (ISH)

Alfred Doku1,2, Ruan Kruger3,4, Kofi T Asamoah5,6

  • 1Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana.

Journal of Hypertension
|August 5, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Hypertension is rising in sub-Saharan Africa, with poor control due to limited resources and training. Simplified protocols and community education are crucial for early detection and management of high blood pressure.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Public Health
  • Global Health

Background:

  • Hypertension prevalence is increasing in sub-Saharan Africa, leading to significant cardiovascular disease burden.
  • Many cases remain undiagnosed or poorly controlled, particularly in children, due to systemic challenges.
  • Limited national guidelines, underfunded programs, and a scarcity of trained health professionals hinder effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To address the escalating hypertension crisis in sub-Saharan Africa.
  • To develop simplified, Africa-centered hypertension guidelines for primary care.
  • To empower non-physician health workers with essential tools for hypertension management.

Main Methods:

  • Development of simplified protocols by the African Regional Advisory Group of the International Society of Hypertension and the Pan African Society of Cardiology.
  • Consideration of unique clinical, cultural, and resource realities of the African continent.
  • Focus on primary care settings and non-physician healthcare providers.

Main Results:

  • Identification of critical barriers including limited guidelines, underfunding, and workforce shortages.
  • Emphasis on the need for culturally relevant community-based education and early screening initiatives.
  • Development of tailored strategies for improved hypertension detection and management.

Conclusions:

  • Africa-centered hypertension guidelines are a priority, as international models are inadequate.
  • Simplified protocols for non-physician health workers are essential for improving primary care.
  • Sustainable progress requires investment in training, equipment, and leveraging existing infrastructure.

Keywords:
African Regional Advisory GroupInternational Society of HypertensionPan African Society of Cardiologyguidelineshypertensionnon-physician health workers

Related Concept Videos

Hypertension V: Nursing Management01:23

Hypertension V: Nursing Management

The nursing management of hypertension involves accurately assessing symptoms, making a comprehensive nursing diagnosis, collaborating with patients to set goals, and implementing targeted interventions to mitigate the condition's impact and improve patient well-being.Comprehensive AssessmentThe initial step in nursing care for hypertension involves a thorough patient assessment. It includes evaluating symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and previous hypertension episodes.
Hypertension I: Introduction01:28

Hypertension I: Introduction

Hypertension is a widespread, long-term medical condition where blood pressure in the arteries remains elevated. It is characterized by systolic blood pressure readings of 130 mm Hg or above or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) readings of 80 mm Hg or higher. Unmanaged hypertension poses significant health risks, making the distinction between primary (or essential) hypertension and secondary hypertension crucial, as their management and implications vary.Primary HypertensionPrimary hypertension,...
Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure01:18

Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure

Hypertension, the most common cardiovascular disease, is diagnosed through repeated measurements of elevated blood pressure. Its risks, including damage to the kidney, heart, and brain, are directly proportional to blood pressure levels. Starting from 115/75 mm Hg, the risk of cardiovascular disease doubles with each increment of 20/10 mm Hg. The diagnosis relies on blood pressure measurements, not on patient symptoms, as hypertension is often asymptomatic until end-organ damage is imminent or...
Hypertension IV: Drug Therapy and Lifestyle Modifications01:28

Hypertension IV: Drug Therapy and Lifestyle Modifications

Multiple classes of antihypertensive medications are employed in treating hypertension. The most commonly recommended first-line treatments include:Thiazide Diuretics, such as chlorthalidone, increase sodium and water excretion from the body, reducing blood volume and blood pressure.Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, like lisinopril, block the conversion of angiotensin I to II, a potent vasoconstrictor lowering blood pressure.Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) prevent angiotensin II...
Pre-Procedural Guidelines for Assessing Blood Pressure01:10

Pre-Procedural Guidelines for Assessing Blood Pressure

Accurate blood pressure assessment is crucial for diagnosing and managing various health conditions. To ensure the reliability of these measurements, healthcare professionals must adhere to standardized pre-procedural guidelines. These guidelines enhance patient safety and improve the overall quality of healthcare. The following steps are essential for obtaining accurate and consistent blood pressure readings, from using the appropriate tools to ensuring effective communication with the patient.
Hypertension II: Pathophysiology01:29

Hypertension II: Pathophysiology

Hypertension is a chronic condition in which the blood's force against artery walls is excessively high, posing risks such as heart disease. The condition's underlying mechanisms involve complex interactions among the cardiovascular, kidney, and autonomic nervous systems.Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS): This system significantly influences blood pressure regulation. When blood pressure decreases, the kidneys secrete renin. This enzyme transforms angiotensinogen, a plasma protein,...