Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Hypertension affects an estimated 30% of Tanzanian adults and is a leading cause of stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure. Most people have no symptoms.
Always confirm diagnosis and treatment with a qualified health professional.
Compiled from public health references including the CDC, Mayo Clinic, WebMD, the World Health Organization, and the Tanzania Ministry of Health.
Overview
Hypertension (blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg) damages blood vessels and organs silently over time. It is the main risk factor for stroke and heart disease — the fastest-growing causes of death in Tanzania. Many Tanzanians are undiagnosed because they feel no symptoms.
Common Symptoms
Most people have no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include:
- Severe headache
- Nosebleeds
- Visual disturbance
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
A hypertensive crisis (BP > 180/120) is a medical emergency.
Treatment
Lifestyle changes + medication (when indicated):
Lifestyle:
- Reduce salt intake to < 5g/day
- Increase physical activity (30 min/day)
- Quit smoking and reduce alcohol
- Maintain healthy weight
Medication (free at public facilities):
- Amlodipine, lisinopril, or hydrochlorothiazide (first-line)
- Take medication daily — do not stop when you feel normal
- Blood pressure monitoring every 3–6 months
Prevention
- Have your blood pressure checked at least once a year (free at public clinics)
- Reduce dietary salt
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid obesity
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Do not smoke
Cost & NHIF Coverage
Public facilities: Blood pressure checks are free or minimal cost; first-line medication (e.g. amlodipine) is often available at low subsidised prices.
NHIF: Covers ongoing consultations and medication at accredited facilities as a chronic condition — check your plan's chronic-disease benefit.
Private facilities: Consultation TZS 10,000–25,000 per visit; monthly medication TZS 5,000–20,000 depending on the drug and dose; this is a lifelong condition, so confirm your NHIF or insurer's chronic-medication coverage before committing to a private-only plan.
Estimated ranges — actual cost varies by facility. Confirm with reception and check your insurer's coverage before treatment.
Where to Get Care
Confirm with reception that the facility treats this condition and that your insurer is accepted before visiting.