‘Heart disease now local leading killer’

DAR ES SALAAM: CARDIOVASCULAR diseases have become the leading cause of death and disability in Tanzania, prompting a nationwide call for regular health checkups and healthier lifestyle choices.

The warning was issued by Executive Director of the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI), Dr Tulizo Sanga during a press briefing held on Monday in Dar es Salaam to mark World Heart Day.

“This day is not just about celebration, it’s about education. Heart disease starts early and affects people from childhood to old age. Prevention is our most powerful tool,” said Dr Sanga.

He noted that non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly cardiovascular conditions, have now overtaken infectious diseases as the country’s primary public health challenge.

“For decades, the focus was on infectious diseases. But now, heart disease is silently killing more people and placing a significant burden on our healthcare system and economy,” he said.

Dr Sanga identified poor diet, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption and tobacco use as major behavioural risk factors. He added that underlying conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease further increase the risk.

“The lifestyle choices we make daily, what we eat, how much we move, whether we smoke or drink, all impact our heart health,” he said.

He expressed concern about the silent nature of cardiovascular diseases, noting that more than 80 per cent of people living with heart conditions show no symptoms until the disease has progressed significantly.

“That’s why we recommend regular checkups, even if you feel fine. Early detection can save lives and is far more cost-effective than emergency treatment,” said Dr Sanga.

He cited high blood pressure, stroke, an enlarged heart and kidney complications as common indicators of cardiovascular issues.

Dr Sanga also revealed the high cost of treating advanced heart conditions, saying that most Tanzanian families cannot afford life-saving interventions.

“A heart attack can cost up to 6m/- to treat. Implantable cardiac devices cost up to 10m/-, permanent heart support devices up to 40m/- and annual kidney dialysis can exceed 20m/-,” he revealed.

To address this growing burden, JKCI has expanded its outreach through the Mama Samia Tiba kwa Mkoba initiative, which delivers mobile health services nationwide.

Dr Sanga said the programme has so far reached over 102,000 people in more than 20 regions, offering free screenings, medication, counseling and health education.

“This mobile outreach has transformed access to care. We are now reaching rural populations who otherwise would never see a heart specialist,” he said.

He urged the public to take proactive steps to prevent heart disease.

“Walk more, eat better, avoid alcohol and tobacco, reduce red meat and fatty foods, manage stress and get your health checked at least twice a year, even if you feel healthy,” he advised.

Dr Sanga described hypertension as one of Tanzania’s most pressing but overlooked health crises.

“Sixty percent of people with high blood pressure don’t know they have it. Among ten men with hypertension, only four show symptoms. The rest are unaware they’re at risk of stroke, kidney failure or heart attack,” he said.

At JKCI, over 70 per cent of more than 1,000 patients seen daily are diagnosed with high blood pressure.

Dr. Sanga called on Tanzanians to take personal responsibility for their heart health.

“Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, sugar levels and weight. Get checked regularly and encourage others to do the same. Protect your heart, protect your future. A healthy nation is a productive nation. Let’s work together to reduce heart disease and build a stronger Tanzania.”

JKCI Paediatric Cardiologist Dr Eva Wakulanda also revealed a strong turnout at the outreach events, including children from various regions.

“We screened over 25 children, five were diagnosed with congenital heart diseases, yet had no visible symptoms. Without this camp, these conditions would have remained undetected,” said Dr Wakulanda.

She explained that some of the children had been previously diagnosed but were unable to access care due to financial or transportation barriers.

“Now that the services are free, families are coming forward. We’ve already scheduled follow-ups and even surgeries for some of the children,” she said.

Dr Wakulanda noted that congenital heart defects can develop before birth, while others may result from infections or autoimmune conditions.

“Some children appear completely healthy until they start school, then signs like fatigue, sweating or shortness of breath begin to emerge. These should not be ignored,” she said.

She urged parents not to let financial concerns prevent them from seeking care for their children.