Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals recently marked its 40th anniversary and World Heart Day with a 10,000-step health walk around Victoria Island, Lagos. The event aimed to highlight the importance of physical activity in preventing cardiovascular and other chronic diseases. The hospital encouraged Nigerians to take greater responsibility for their cardiovascular health. This annual event is part of the hospital's efforts to promote heart health awareness. World Heart Day is commemorated annually on September 29. The walk was a significant activity to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases.
The Managing Director of Iwosan Lagoon Hospital, Victoria Island, Dr. Ayobami Kuyoro, emphasized the importance of walking for cardiovascular health. She stated that walking is one of the simplest ways to improve cardiovascular health, helping with blood pressure, blood sugar control, and other chronic diseases. Dr. Kuyoro encouraged people to become intentional about walking every day, not just stopping at the event. She also urged Nigerians to regard their health as a personal responsibility and prioritize preventive care. This approach can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Dr. Kuyoro advised Nigerians to "know their numbers" by regularly checking their blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. She also recommended maintaining regular exercise and healthy eating habits. For those who cannot exercise for 30 minutes continuously, Dr. Kuyoro suggested dividing the period into shorter sessions throughout the day. This approach can help individuals incorporate physical activity into their busy schedules. By making these simple changes, Nigerians can significantly improve their cardiovascular health.
Dr. Kuyoro also cautioned younger Nigerians against assuming that hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions only affect older people. She noted that hypertension can occur among people in their 20s and 30s and even children. Therefore, routine screening is essential regardless of age. The hospital works with corporate organizations, schools, and communities to promote screening and cardiovascular risk assessment. These assessments help healthcare professionals identify individual risk factors and provide personalized recommendations.
The Chief Executive Officer of Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals, Dr. Olubisi Oyeniran, emphasized that cardiovascular diseases remain a major public health challenge. He urged Nigerians to begin prevention early in life by modifying lifestyle-related risk factors such as physical inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking. Dr. Oyeniran stated that the decisions made today can significantly impact future cardiovascular health. By incorporating movement into daily routines, Nigerians can reduce their risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Dr. Oyeniran encouraged Nigerians to incorporate movement into their daily routines rather than waiting for opportunities to undertake formal exercise. He suggested simple actions such as standing up and walking around during phone calls, using the stairs, or parking a little farther away from the office. By making these small changes, individuals can significantly improve their cardiovascular health. Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals will continue to invest in facilities, technology, and specialist manpower, particularly in cardiovascular medicine.
Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals' efforts to promote heart health awareness and prevention are crucial in Nigeria, where cardiovascular diseases are a significant public health challenge. The hospital's 40th anniversary and World Heart Day celebrations served as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing heart health. By working together, Nigerians can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and promote overall well-being. The hospital's commitment to providing quality healthcare services and promoting preventive care is essential in addressing the country's cardiovascular health needs.
Key points
- Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals urges Nigerians to prioritize heart health through regular physical activity, routine health checks, and healthy eating.
