Back in June 2016, we lost two football legends, Stephen Keshi and Shuaibu Amodu, both to what seemed like heart related issues. This got us thinking about a growing problem in Nigeria—heart disease. It’s not just about famous faces; everyday stories of people suddenly passing away are becoming more common.
New data by the World Health Organization is telling us that heart disease is a big deal in Nigeria. Over 100,000 people died from heart related problems, making up about 5.60% of all deaths. To put it in perspective, Nigeria is ranked 31st in the world for heart disease deaths. But here's the problem, our healthcare system isn't quite ready to handle this surge in heart issues.
Identifying the Causes.
1. Hypertension.
2. Unhealthy Diet.
3. Obesity.
There’s this idea among many Nigerians that being bigger means being healthier. Well, that’s not exactly true. Carrying extra weight can lead to serious health problems. Let’s forget the misconception and focus on keeping a healthy body size.
4. Physical Inactivity.
5. Smoking and Alcohol Use.
6. Genetics.
7. Diabetes.
We're in the midst of a significant challenge concerning heart health. The statistics are concerning, and it might be time to reassess our perspectives on health. However, we have the power to rewrite this narrative. Let's actively share the insights from this blog post, empower ourselves with knowledge, and advocate for improved healthcare access. Share this post with your loved ones, raising awareness is the first step toward a heart-smart community.
