Orfa Tor-Ayiin, a consultant family physician at the Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi, has advised Nigerians to undergo regular medical check-ups to prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension and diabetes.
He made the remarks during an interview with journalists at the closing session of the 9th Annual Abuja Cardiovascular Symposium (ACS) in Abuja.
The two-day symposium, themed “Hypertension, Diabetes and Heart Disease: Domesticating Global Solutions to Nigeria’s Deadly Trio,” was organised by Cardiocare Multi-Specialty Hospital, a subsidiary of Limi Hospital. It drew medical professionals from across various health disciplines.
Mr. Tor-Ayiin explained that the symposium focused on hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease because they are now the leading causes of death among NCDs in Nigeria.
“Previously, infectious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and gastroenteritis were the main causes of death. Today, lifestyle-related diseases like diabetes and hypertension are responsible for most fatalities. These conditions develop due to lifestyle choices and ageing, rather than being contagious,” he said.
He added that the rising prevalence of NCDs underscores the importance of continuous training for healthcare workers.
“These diseases are not new, but their occurrence is increasing. The symposium serves to refresh the knowledge of health professionals on managing diabetes, hypertension, and heart failure,” he noted.
Participants included doctors, nurses, laboratory scientists, and other healthcare professionals. Mr. Tor-Ayiin emphasized that the event also aimed to educate Nigerians on early warning signs and preventive measures.
“These diseases affect the heart and blood vessels, which run throughout the body. That is why they can impact nearly every organ,” he explained.
The consultant physician urged Nigerians to regularly monitor their blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, and to adhere to medical advice. He also warned against unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles.
“What we eat directly affects our health. Nigerians should limit sugary drinks, alcohol, and smoking, and avoid prolonged physical inactivity,” he advised.
Speaking at the event, Nwobodo Chukwuka, nursing manager at Cardiocare Multi-Specialty Hospital, encouraged Nigerians to take personal responsibility for their health.
“Nurses are often the first point of contact for patients. When individuals take care of themselves, it benefits both patients and the healthcare system,” he said.
Mr. Chukwuka highlighted that excessive stress can worsen NCDs and stressed that early detection and lifestyle modification are essential for effective management. He also recommended consuming more natural foods and reducing highly refined foods to prevent obesity and related diseases.
“If these conditions are detected early, they can be managed effectively, allowing patients to lead normal lives,” he added.
Solomon Olusola, administrative manager of Cardiocare Multi-Specialty Hospital, said the ninth edition of the symposium reflects the hospital’s commitment to health education, especially in internal medicine.
He encouraged Nigerians experiencing cardiovascular-related symptoms to seek care at the hospital, noting the availability of specialised medical personnel.
“We offer multiple cardiovascular specialties under one roof, including neurology, gastroenterology, and cardiothoracic surgery. Our facility performs advanced procedures, ranging from coronary angiography to coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Our system ensures prompt attention to patients, from emergency care to surgical intervention when needed,” Mr. Olusola said.
Related topic：
