A recent symposium in Abuja, Nigeria, has highlighted the importance of regular medical check-ups in preventing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Dr. Iorfa Tor-Ayiin, a consultant family physician at the Federal Medical Centre in Makurdi, Benue State, advised Nigerians to undertake regular health checks to prevent conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease. These diseases have become leading causes of death in Nigeria, surpassing infectious diseases like malaria and tuberculosis.
The 9th Annual Abuja Cardiovascular Symposium, themed “Hypertension, Diabetes and Heart Disease: Domesticating Global Solutions to Nigeria’s Deadly Trio,” was organized by Cardiocare Multi-Speciality Hospital. The two-day event brought together medical professionals from various disciplines to discuss the rising burden of NCDs in Nigeria. According to Dr. Tor-Ayiin, the symposium aimed to refresh the knowledge of health workers on managing diabetes, hypertension, and heart failure, as well as educate Nigerians on early warning signs and preventive measures.
The consultant physician emphasized the need for Nigerians to regularly check their blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, and follow medical advice. He also cautioned against unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles, which can increase the risk of developing NCDs. Mr. Nwobodo Chukwuka, Nursing Manager at Cardiocare Multi-Speciality Hospital, urged Nigerians to take personal responsibility for their health, noting that early detection and lifestyle modification are key to disease management.
The hospital’s Administrative Manager, Mr. Solomon Olusola, highlighted the hospital’s commitment to health education and encouraged Nigerians experiencing cardiovascular-related symptoms to seek care at the hospital. The hospital offers specialized medical services, including neurology, gastroenterology, and cardiothoracic surgery, and conducts advanced procedures such as coronary angiography and coronary artery bypass graft surgery.
The symposium’s focus on NCDs is significant, given the rising prevalence of these conditions in Nigeria. By educating health workers and the general public on preventive measures and early warning signs, the symposium aims to reduce the burden of NCDs in the country. As Dr. Tor-Ayiin noted, regular medical check-ups and healthy lifestyles can help prevent and manage NCDs, ultimately reducing the risk of premature death. By taking proactive steps, Nigerians can reduce their risk of developing these conditions and improve their overall health and well-being.
