Health expert urges enough sleep, rest to control hypertension

Dr Godfred Owusu Ansah, a Sunyani-based medical practitioner, has urged Ghanaians to have enough rest and sleep well to stem the growing cases of hypertension in the country.

According to him, hypertension was now a public health concern, recording disturbing figures at health facilities.

“We have to manage stress through enough sleep and rest, and also reduce the risk as well”, he told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) on the sidelines of a forum at Fiapre in the Sunyani West Municipality, organized by the Living Grace Ministries International.

Dr Owusu Ansah said inadequate sleep was directly linked to stress and hypertension and urged the public to rest well and maintain a balanced lifestyle as well.

He advised that: “To manage hypertension effectively, one must eat a balanced diet, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein,s and limit the intake of sugar and salt, asking the public to exercise regularly to be physically active and thereby lower their blood pressure.

Dr Owusu Ansah also urged the public to incorporate annual medical check-ups into their routine activities and maintain a healthy lifestyle, monitor their blood circulation and pressure.

“Routine medical check-ups are necessary”, he stated, urging everybody to do voluntary medical health check-ups frequently to detect underlying health problems like hypertension, diabetes, infections, and related health problems.

He said that: “People who are conscious of their health conditions can take control of their health, make informed decisions and improve their overall wellbeing”.

Dr Owusu Ansah highlighted the importance of preventive healthcare and urged the public to prioritize their health by seeking early medical attention before symptoms worsen.