The Silent Crisis: Understanding the Cardiovascular Epidemic in Nigeria

The Silent Crisis: Understanding the Cardiovascular Epidemic in Nigeria

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), primarily heart and stroke, have long been seen as challenges in the Western world. But in recent decades, the narrative has shifted, with countries like Nigeria experiencing a concerning surge in CVDs. Let's delve into the data to understand the magnitude and implications of this silent crisis.

A Growing Threat

A study published in the World Journal of Cardiology in 2017 revealed that cardiovascular diseases are now responsible for an estimated 11% of overall deaths in Nigeria. This figure is alarming when juxtaposed with data from just a few decades ago. The prevalence is not merely a factor of an ageing population; younger individuals are also at risk.

Urbanisation and Lifestyle Changes

A 2018 review in the Nigerian Medical Journal highlighted the impact of rapid urbanisation and westernised lifestyles. Sedentary habits, high-fat diets, increased tobacco usage, and elevated stress levels have become more commonplace, contributing directly to cardiovascular risks.

Limited Awareness and Screening

Despite the growing threat, awareness remains limited. A 2016 survey conducted and published in the Journal of Hypertension revealed that over 60% of hypertensive individuals in Nigeria were unaware of their condition, emphasising the absence of routine screenings.

Challenges in Healthcare Infrastructure

While Nigeria boasts several top-tier medical facilities, there needs to be more distribution of resources. A review in the African Health Sciences journal in 2019 highlighted the scarcity of specialised cardiac centres, particularly in rural regions.

Efforts Towards Change

The silver lining in this looming crisis is the concerted effort by NGOs, the Nigerian government, and international health organisations to turn the tide. Initiatives like the 'Healthy Heart Africa' by AstraZeneca aim at enhancing CVD awareness and facilitating access to essential treatments.

Moreover, in collaboration with the World Heart Federation, the Nigerian Cardiac Society is actively pushing for public health campaigns and medical training programs to tackle the epidemic head-on.

The Way Forward

The need for immediate and comprehensive action becomes apparent as the evidence mounts. The onus is on the healthcare system and individuals to prioritise heart health through lifestyle adjustments, regular screenings, and adherence to medical advice.

It is essential to break the silence surrounding Nigeria's cardiovascular crisis and commit collectively to solutions that can change the trajectory of this epidemic for the better.