SRHIN AFRICA Website
Blog Post
- Peace Oregbesan
In Nigeria, an escalating health crisis is occurring as Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are claiming the lives of young Nigerians.NCDs such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and respiratory diseases which were once perceived as ailments of the elderly are now affecting youths.
Nearly 30% of all deaths in Nigeria are due to NCD. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have caught the attention of the global health community because they are responsible for about 41 million deaths a year, equivalent to 71% of all deaths globally. Of the fatalities caused by NCDs, 17.9 million are attributable to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), 9.3 million to cancer, 4.1 million to respiratory diseases, 1.5 million to diabetes, and the remaining 8.2 million to other NCDs. To address this pressing issue, collaborative efforts are needed to curb the spread of NCDs and save lives.
Education plays a pivotal role in achieving this. By raising awareness about the risk factors associated with NCDs and promoting healthy lifestyle choices, we can empower young individuals to take proactive steps in safeguarding their health. This entails advocating for nutritious diets, regular physical activity, quitting tobacco, excessive alcohol consumption, and stress management.
Moreover, enhancing access to quality healthcare services is important. Government initiatives should prioritize the development of healthcare infrastructure and ensure affordability and accessibility of healthcare for all citizens. Comprehensive healthcare policies should incorporate preventive measures, early detection programs, and effective treatment options for NCDs.
Thanks to the support of AstraZeneca, we were able to take the lead in raising awareness about Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) among university students and secondary school students across Nigeria. Through education and creating awareness, we have been able to equip young individuals with essential knowledge about NCDs, their risk factors, and preventive strategies.
Collaboration between government entities, healthcare professionals, community organizations, and educational institutions is essential to implement sustainable interventions. Together, we can combat the rising prevalence of NCDs among young Nigerians and pave the way for healthier futures. It’s time to unite our efforts and stop the silent menace of NCDs in its tracks.