In April, Nelson Mandela University’s 3rd and 4th year Biokinetics students had the opportunity to participate in a research project aimed at health initiatives in children. Collaborating with KaziBantu and the Siyaphakama Zwide Schools project, the students contributed to the Nelson Mandela Bay pilot testing phase for the Childhood Hypertension Consortium of South Africa (CHCSA). This collaboration enabled students to gain hands-on research experience while positively engaging within the community by working with learners who have not previously undergone such health assessments.
During the pilot screening, essential anthropometric and health components such as height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, and heart rate were measured, which are significant risk factors for developing hypertension in adulthood, making early diagnosis and treatment essential for long-term cardiovascular health. However, limited information regarding the prevalence of hypertension is known in children across sub-Saharan Africa. Early detection of risk factors, such as hypertension, allows for timely intervention and assists in addressing lifestyle or medical factors contributing to the condition and reducing the long-term burden on an individual’s health. Establishing healthy behaviours and practices in children is essential for their overall development. KaziBantu remains dedicated to fostering these habits by continuously training coaches and teachers to lead quality Physical Education lessons and promote physical activity as a natural part of a child’s daily routine. Additionally, the ongoing nutrition education programme for food preparers is critical in ensuring that learners receive healthy, nutritious meals, further supporting their physical and cognitive development. This holistic approach to health empowers children to thrive both inside and outside the classroom, laying a strong foundation for lifelong well-being.
Currently, the CHCSA aims to develop ongoing projects throughout South Africa, to improve hypertension care and management among children and adolescents. This initiative will also pave the way for the creation of the first clinical practice guidelines for managing hypertension in paediatric populations across the country, bridging the knowledge gap and improving our understanding and management of hypertension in younger populations, fostering a healthier future.
