A Systematic Review of the Impact of Physical Activities in the Prevention and Control of High Blood Pressure Among Adults in Africa

Background Hypertension is still one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in Africa, largely driven by sedentary lifestyles and limited access to preventive healthcare. Physical activity has been recognised as a cost-effective, non-pharmacological approach for the management of hypertension. Nonetheless, evidence from African populations continues to be disjointed. This study aimed to assess the impact of physical activity in the prevention and control of high blood pressure in adults in Africa. Methods A comprehensive review was performed utilising studies published from 2010 to 2025 sourced from PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science, and African Index Medicus. Retrieved studies were screened based on pre-determined eligibility criteria. Data were extracted according to key variables, including study design, intervention type, duration, outcome measures, and key findings. The CASP checklist for randomised controlled trials was employed to assess the methodological quality of the studies that were included. Studies were synthesised using a narrative synthesis approach. Results Five studies satisfied the inclusion criteria. The results repeatedly demonstrated that moderate-intensity aerobic exercises, especially brisk walking and aerobic dance, substantially reduced systolic blood pressure, with lesser albeit favourable impacts on diastolic blood pressure. Interventions lasting 12 to 16 weeks or longer and those that included medication led to the most significant results. Conclusion Consistent, moderate-intensity physical activity significantly reduces blood pressure and ought to be included in hypertension care and preventive programs in Africa. The results show that there is a need for national policies that encourage community-based fitness programs and more large-scale studies to look at long-term and gender-specific impacts. PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD420251131467.