In this regard, the director of the GHESKIO center, Dr. William Pape, recalled that HIV was the leading cause of death here for more than 30 years and now ranks seventh.

Pape described high blood pressure as a silent disease and has already drawn attention to Haitians who consume four times more salt than the recommended amount, which increases their risk of suffering from it.

He considered the high concentration of lead in the water consumed by the population to be dangerous, as it is an aggravating factor for arteries and blood circulation.

The intensive use of motorcycles reduces walking, decreasing daily physical activity, and accentuating a sedentary lifestyle in society, he added.

Pape—quoted by the newspaper Le Nouvelliste—did not rule out the theory that black people are predisposed to hypertension, but certain behaviors can limit the risks.

He emphasized that hypertension is the leading cause of death for both men and women here.

abo/arm/ga/joe