Dr Kganetso Sekome made the remarks during the opening of the Stroke Rehabilitation Research Conference currently taking place in Johannesburg.

He described hypertension as a “silent killer” that often goes unnoticed until it causes serious damage. “Most people don’t know they’re living with high blood pressure until they end up in a hospital,” said Sekome. “That’s the danger, it gives no warning signs.”

He urged South Africans to prioritise routine health checks as a preventive measure. “Don’t wait until you’re feeling unwell. Go for a blood pressure screening at least every three months, even twice a year is better than nothing. Knowing your numbers could save your life.”

The conference, now in its second day, has brought together researchers, healthcare professionals and rehabilitation specialists to share insights on how to reduce stroke risk and improve recovery outcomes for patients.

Recent findings from the Global Burden of Disease study highlight the urgency of such conversations, with an estimated 12.2 million new stroke cases recorded worldwide each year. In SA, rising stroke rates are closely tied to undiagnosed or poorly managed hypertension, particularly in low- and middle-income communities.

Experts say greater awareness, regular screening, and early lifestyle interventions can significantly reduce stroke-related deaths and disability.

--ChannelAfrica--