Dr Emefa Klah, a General Medical Practitioner, cautioned adults that failing to get adequate, quality sleep can heighten the risk of developing high blood pressure. She explained that persistent sleep deprivation, particularly for those exposed to high stress, can trigger a self‑reinforcing loop of stress, poor rest and unhealthy habits that damage overall health.
Speaking on The Healthy Living Project segment of the Citi Breakfast Show, Dr Klah stressed the importance of aiming for about eight hours of sleep each night. She warned that corporate workers and others in demanding roles who do not meet this minimum are “a candidate for high blood pressure” because the cycle of stress, lack of sleep and poor diet can keep the body in a constant state of strain.
Dr Klah added that excess sodium intake—commonly from salt—can worsen the situation by causing the body to retain water, increasing blood volume and forcing the heart to pump under higher pressure. She urged people to reduce salt consumption alongside improving sleep habits.
The Healthy Living Project is powered by Channel One TV and Citi FM, and is sponsored by the National Health Insurance Authority and Synlab.
