Doctor Francesco Lo Monaco's warning comes as millions inadvertently strain their hearts daily through common lifestyle habits.

Latest data from the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK estimates 4,1 million people live with undiagnosed high blood pressure. Concurrently, figures from the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) indicate the prevalence of this disease is soaring across East Africa due to rapid urbanization.

Illustrative photo: Dr Kartik Bhosale.

Monaco explains that prolonged high blood pressure, lasting months or years, forces the heart to pump against greater resistance.

Initially, the heart adapts by thickening. However, this structural change reduces its pumping efficiency over time. If left untreated, hypertrophy – an abnormal enlargement of the heart – weakens the heart muscle, leading to heart failure, arrhythmias, and stroke.

The NHS considers high blood pressure a "silent killer" because it progresses stealthily, often without obvious symptoms, making early detection difficult.

Beyond uncontrolled blood pressure, Doctor Monaco identifies 4 other risk factors. Sleep apnea syndrome causes repeated nightly oxygen deprivation, placing heavy pressure on the circulatory system and altering heart muscle structure.

Long-term alcohol abuse directly weakens the heart. Obesity forces it to work continuously at a higher intensity to supply blood to the body.

Meanwhile, a sedentary lifestyle, though not immediately damaging, promotes obesity and high blood pressure, indirectly harming cardiovascular health.

Doctor Francesco Lo Monaco. Photo: Dr Monaco Cardiologist.

Monaco advises seeking immediate medical attention if warning signs appear, including: shortness of breath, swollen ankles, chest pain, palpitations, and unusual fatigue.

Effectively managing blood pressure, treating sleep apnea, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol can reduce strain and protect heart health.

By Binh Minh (Source: Mirror, My London)