Chijioke Iremeka
Physicians have urged Nigerians who have attained age 40 and above to prioritise regular medical examinations to reduce the risk of sudden death.
They emphasised that many people neglect routine check-ups because they lack symptoms of any ailment. They warned that this negligence could be dangerous, as many serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, develop silently.
The experts maintained that routine checks allow for early detection of these potential illnesses, and enable timely interventions that could significantly improve outcomes.
The doctors emphasised the importance of monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other vital health indicators, insisting that screenings tailored to age and risk factors, can catch problems before they escalate.
The Nigerian Cardiac Society had called on the government to increase the funding for health to encourage early and regular screening for cardiovascular risk factors.
It also appealed for an urgent institutionalisation of effective cardiovascular care among Nigerians by providing adequate facilities for the hospitals.
The President of the NCS, Prof Augustine Odili said promoting effective lifestyle modification will reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease and sudden death among the population.
According to an online medical journal, ScienceDirect, sudden death is non-violent, unexpected death occurring from a natural cause within hours of the onset of symptoms in a healthy.
Speaking with PUNCH Healthwise in different interviews, the physicians said by committing to routine examinations, people could take proactive steps toward safeguarding their health and reducing the likelihood of unexpected health crises.
A Family Health Physician at the Anambra State Ministry of Health, Dr Chidumeje Okafor said these conditions might not always present noticeable symptoms in their early stages, making routine checkups critical for early detection.
He noted that regular health checkups are a fundamental practice for reducing the risk of sudden death among men.
Okafor noted, “High blood pressure or cholesterol levels might not cause immediate discomfort but can lead to serious complications like heart attacks, strokes or death if left untreated.
He emphasised that routine medical examinations allow physicians to monitor these indicators and implement strategies to manage them effectively.
Okafor said, “These evaluations offer an opportunity for men to engage in discussions about their overall health and wellness. Doctors can provide personalised advice on lifestyle changes that could pose a danger that is vital in reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
“For example, a balanced diet and regular physical activity can help manage weight, lower cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of diabetes, all contributing factors to heart health.
“Preventive screenings conducted during checkups are another critical component. Tests for conditions such as prostate cancer or colorectal cancer, which can have high survival rates if detected early, are essential.”
He stressed that regular screenings increase the chances of early diagnosis and treatment, significantly improving outcomes and reducing the risk of sudden death from these diseases.
Speaking further, a Consultant Cardiologist at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, Dr Adesanya Olusegun-Joseph said comprehensive health assessment is key to reducing the rate of sudden death in the country.
Olusegun-Joseph said that sudden death is a major public health challenge and urged men especially to exercise themselves, maintain a healthy diet, and shun a sedentary lifestyle which are risk factors for cardiovascular sudden deaths and stroke.
He said that hypertension is responsible for most sudden deaths in the country and warned the public, especially the men to be mindful of their cardiovascular health and cautious of what they eat and drink.
“Regular BP checks will save a lot of lives. Those with elevated blood pressure should stick to only a healthy lifestyle that won’t worsen their cardiovascular health.
“They need healthy exercise but must check the condition of their hearts before taking on any tedious exercise to prevent sudden death. Avoidance of alcoholic beverages should be considered too,” Olusegun-Joseph added.
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