Eswatini is facing a troubling rise in hypertension cases, with increasing numbers of young people affected. This surge has been linked to lifestyle choices, particularly the excessive consumption of salt.
During World Salt Awareness Week 2025, health experts drew attention to the dangers of high salt intake. The global campaign, led by Action on Salt and WASSH under the theme “6 Ways to 6 Grams,” encourages people to limit their daily salt consumption to six grams to reduce health risks.
Local health officials say poor diets, especially the growing reliance on processed and fast foods in urban areas, are driving the rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs). According to the 2024/25 Ministry of Health Annual Performance Report, out of 13,214 people screened for NCD risk factors, 214 were referred for hypertension care. The total number of diagnosed hypertension cases reached 7,587 in 2024, continuing an upward trend over recent years.
Vusi Mavuso, the Ministry’s NCD Coordinator, linked the increasing hypertension rates among youth to their dietary habits. “We are seeing more young people diagnosed with hypertension, largely because of lifestyle choices like consuming too much salt,” he said.
Food scientist Sanele Macwele explained that many people consume excessive salt unknowingly. “The danger is not just the salt added at the table but the hidden salt in processed foods like bread, soups, sauces, and snacks,” he said.
Excess salt intake raises the risk of high blood pressure, which often shows no symptoms but can cause heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure if untreated.
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