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HYPERTENSION INCIDENCE PROVING TO BE RAMPANT AMONG THE DISABLED GROUPS
EXPERTS CITE STRESS AND LIFESTYLE ISSUES
High blood pressure is reaching crisis levels among individuals with disabilities, according to healthcare professionals at a recent health symposium. Medical staff reported that approximately 8 out of 10 patients examined were diagnosed with hypertension.
“One of the main diagnoses I am seeing among these patients today is hypertension,” noted Nurse Asantae Gardener. “Contributing factors likely include economic stressors, daily challenges, poor diet, and insufficient access to resources and exercise opportunities.”
These concerning statistics emerged during the Assistive Technology and Health Symposium held at GWest Medical Centre in Montego Bay, St James. The event, organized by the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s Possibility Ministries, provided free medical, dental, and counseling services to over 150 vulnerable individuals, including elderly persons and children with disabilities.
Nurse Anastacia Shaw confirmed hypertension as the most common diagnosis, with diabetes following closely behind. “Their lifestyle challenges are significant,” Shaw explained. “Many don’t adhere to medication regimens or maintain proper diet. Some lack adequate home support to follow medical recommendations. Despite education at health centers and during visits, compliance remains problematic.”
The disability community faces multiple barriers to health maintenance, including financial limitations, mobility restrictions, and insufficient support systems.
Pastor Adrian Cotterell, Possibility Ministries Coordinator at the Jamaica Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, emphasized their commitment to this vulnerable population: “We consider it our duty to care for those with disabilities since many of us experience some form of disability during our lives. The support of caring individuals and organizations directly impacts quality of life.”
COLLABORATIVE INITIATIVE
This year’s health symposium celebrated two significant milestones: its third annual event and the 10th anniversary of the ministry’s dedicated outreach services. The initiative brought together several organizations including GWest Medical Complex, West Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Andrews Memorial Hospital, Peak Dental Surgery, and Heal Medical and Dental Supplies.
Attendees received comprehensive healthcare through dental, gynecological, audiological, and general medical services.
Addressing the high prevalence of hypertension among disabled individuals, Nurse Gardener emphasized the need for accessible health education and adapted exercise options. “For those with physical limitations who cannot engage in intense activities, simple exercises like lifting water bottles or hand movements can be beneficial. Finding ways to reduce their stress levels is essential,” she explained.
Hypertension remains a widespread health concern throughout Jamaica. The Jamaica Health and Lifestyle Survey (2016-17) revealed that approximately one-third of Jamaicans suffer from high blood pressure—affecting 35.8% of women and 31.7% of men. Alarmingly, 40% of those affected are unaware of their condition, including 60% of men and 26% of women with hypertension.
The survey also documented a concerning upward trend, with hypertension rates in the 15-74 age group increasing from 20.9% in 2001 to 31.5% by 2017.
As hypertension continues to disproportionately impact people with disabilities, healthcare professionals and community advocates are pushing for specialized interventions tailored to improve health outcomes in this vulnerable population.
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