"The SAMRC/NWU Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease Research Unit researches hypertension development in African populations, which have the highest average blood pressures recorded worldwide. The Unit’s aim is to increase awareness as well as to help implement more effective treatment and prevention programmes to lower the risk of stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure and renal failure," The South African Medical Research Council
Research
The SAMRC/NWU EMU focuses on understanding the development of Cardiovascular Disease (CDV), from early detection in children to more advanced stages in the elderly, exploring genetic and lifestyle factors unique to South African communities. Its research aims to reduce CVD prevalence through early intervention, improved public health initiatives and evidence-based strategies tailored to the South African context.
The EMU team boasts researchers from the NWU's Hypertension in Africa Research Team (HART) and Centre of Excellence for Nutrition (CEN).
Key focus areas
Identifying the impact of societal and environmental factors, health choices, HIV-infection, genetic risk markers, cardiovascular history, organ damage and biological changes on hypertension and cardiovascular disease risk;
Investigating effective strategies for early disease detection and prevention;
Producing new knowledge on the stages of hypertension and cardiovascular disease development to inform treatment and prevention programmes.
Community Engagement
In addition to its research contributions, the EMU has been committed to community engagement through initiatives such as May Measurement Month, a global hypertension awareness campaign and educational programmes that promote healthy lifestyles to prevent CVD.
The EMU also works closely with schools, clinics and workplaces, sharing information on how individuals can reduce their risk of developing cardiovascular diseases...read more
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