Kenyan doctors are warning of a rapid increase in lifestyle-related diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, particularly in urban areas. Health practitioners say changes in diet, reduced physical activity, and high-stress lifestyles are driving the surge, with more young people being diagnosed with conditions previously seen mostly in older adults. Hospitals report that lifestyle diseases are now among the leading causes of hospital admissions and deaths, putting additional pressure on an already strained health system.
According to the Kenya Medical Association (KMA), recent studies indicate that nearly one in three adults in major cities suffers from high blood pressure, while cases of type 2 diabetes are on the rise. Doctors attribute the trend to increased consumption of processed foods, sugary beverages, and sedentary lifestyles linked to urbanization. Experts note that lifestyle diseases not only affect physical health but also contribute to mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression. Community awareness campaigns are still limited, leaving many at risk unaware of early symptoms.
Public health advocates have welcomed the warning, emphasizing the need for preventive measures such as regular health screenings, improved dietary choices, and active living. County governments are also being encouraged to implement exercise-friendly infrastructure and nutrition education programs in schools and workplaces. Patients are urged to monitor blood pressure and sugar levels regularly and seek timely medical care to prevent complications.
Looking ahead, health officials plan to launch nationwide initiatives to curb the rise of lifestyle diseases, including promoting healthier diets, subsidizing preventive screenings, and expanding community outreach programs. Experts believe that addressing lifestyle factors early can significantly reduce the burden of chronic disease and improve life expectancy for Kenyans.