However, the problem ofHTN in Dakar–and in SSA in general–appears in a very different
light compared to developed countries. Indeed, while the more developed countries such as the
United States for example [24] have largely surpassed the Rule ofHalves, it seems still well out
ofreach for the Dakar population. Among hypertensive individuals in Dakar, just over 28%
were aware of their condition. Among them, over 55% reported taking treatment for high
blood pressure, but fewer than 30% of the people reporting treatment had controlled blood
pressure, or less 5% of the hypertensive population. In comparison, this rate was over 50% in
the United States in 2011–2012 [24]. While improving awareness of HTN in Dakar is a first step toward reducing CVD morbidity and mortality, inability to afford medicine consistently
may hinder HTN control efforts in a country where the permanent economic crisis often hampers access to prescribed medication [47].