Nigerian Cardiac Society (NCS) has disclosed that cardiovascular-related deaths might rise to 23 million globally by 2030 if necessary measures are not taken.
The NCS in a jointly signed statement by Prof Augustine Odili, Prof. Chizindu A. Alikor and Prof. A. Akintunde expressed concern over the alarming rate of cardiovascular-related deaths in the Country as the association marks 2023 World Hearts Day on Friday.
It was stated that over 20.5 million people die of heart-related diseases worldwide, with more than 75% occurring in low- and middle-income countries.
“While heart disease remains the most common cause of death in the developed world, the astronomical increase in its prevalence and the exponential rise in associated mortality and morbidity in developing countries is a major cause for concern.
‘Ironically, 80% of premature deaths from CVD can be prevented by way of small lifestyle adjustments. For instance, a healthy diet, physical activities (i.e. brisk walking, cycling, jogging, etc.), and effective stress management, among others, could greatly improve heart health”.
However, in a bid to combat the scourge of heart disease and promote heart health, the Nigerian Cardiac Society has stressed the need for a moderate lifestyle.
“The risk factors for heart disease are many. The most common, and by far, the important ones are related to lifestyle such as lack of physical exercise, smoking tobacco, consuming alcohol,
eating unhealthy diets rich in salt and saturated fats and low in fresh fruits and vegetables.
“Consequently, these behavioural risk factors may eventually lead to other cardiovascular risks such as high blood pressure (hypertension), high blood lipids/cholesterol (dyslipidaemia), overweight and obesity, and diabetes mellitus.
“Hypertension is the most common risk factor for heart disease and stroke in Nigeria. Sadly, three out of every ten adult Nigerians have high blood pressure, many of whom are unaware of their hypertensive status.
“Effective blood pressure control is a major panacea for reducing the cardiovascular risk of affected people.
More sadly, only about 7% of hypertensive subjects have been shown to achieve effective blood pressure control in Nigeria and other sub-Saharan African countries. It follows therefore that to maintain good health, we must be mindful of the daily lifestyle choices we make.
“Making the right decisions keeps you healthy and prevents premature deaths from stroke and heart disease.
“This year’s campaign focuses on the essential step of knowing our hearts first because we only love and protect what we know.”
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