Health experts have called for increased public awareness, routine health screening and the adoption of healthier lifestyles to address the growing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly hypertension and diabetes, in Nigeria.
The experts made the call during a health sensitisation forum in Abuja, warning that the increasing burden of NCDs poses significant challenges to individuals, families and the nation’s healthcare system.
According to them, hypertension and diabetes have emerged as major public health concerns due to changing lifestyles, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption.
A Consultant Physician and Endocrinologist, Dr. Amina Bello, said that many Nigerians were living with hypertension and diabetes without being aware of their health status.
She explained that both conditions often progress silently, with symptoms becoming noticeable only after complications have developed.
“Regular medical check-ups are essential because early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of serious complications such as stroke, kidney failure, blindness and cardiovascular diseases,” she said.
Bello advised adults, especially those above the age of 40 and individuals with a family history of the diseases, to undergo periodic blood pressure and blood glucose checks.
She emphasised that prevention remained the most cost-effective strategy in reducing the burden of NCDs.
Similarly, a public health specialist, Dr. Emmanuel Okeke, stressed the need for sustained health education campaigns to encourage healthier lifestyle choices among Nigerians.
According to him, increased consumption of processed foods high in salt, sugar and unhealthy fats has contributed to the rise in cases of hypertension and diabetes.
He urged citizens to embrace balanced diets rich in fruits and vegetables, maintain regular physical activity, avoid tobacco use and moderate alcohol intake.
“Simple lifestyle modifications can go a long way in preventing these diseases. People should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week and maintain a healthy body weight,” Okeke said.
The experts also highlighted the importance of strengthening primary healthcare services to improve access to screening, diagnosis and long-term management of chronic illnesses.
They noted that inadequate access to affordable healthcare services and medications often hinders effective disease control, particularly in rural communities.
According to the stakeholders, integrating NCD services into existing primary healthcare programmes would enhance early diagnosis and continuity of care.
The experts further advocated increased government investment in healthcare infrastructure, workforce development and the availability of essential medicines for the treatment of hypertension and diabetes.
They called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, healthcare providers, civil society organisations and the private sector to address the growing burden of NCDs.
Meanwhile, some patients living with the conditions appealed for policies that would reduce the cost of medications and routine laboratory investigations.
They observed that the financial burden associated with lifelong treatment could affect adherence to prescribed therapies.
Health advocates maintained that tackling NCDs required a comprehensive approach involving prevention, early detection, effective treatment and sustained public education.
They added that empowering individuals with accurate health information would encourage positive behavioural changes and improve health outcomes.
Experts warned that if urgent interventions were not implemented, the increasing incidence of hypertension and diabetes could lead to higher rates of disability, premature deaths and economic losses.
They, however, expressed optimism that coordinated efforts aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles and strengthening healthcare systems could significantly reduce the impact of the diseases on the population.
