September 29: Authorities Must Intensify Awareness On Healthy Heart Lifestyle

BY ISAAC ASABOR*

As World Heart Day approaches on September 29, the message of living a healthy heart lifestyle continues to resonate globally. However, it appears that many people, particularly in Nigeria, are ignoring this critical call. Government officials and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have done their part to raise awareness, but it is clear that more needs to be done to embed the message in everyday life and ensure that people take it seriously.

The rising rate of heart-related illnesses and deaths is concerning, but there appears to be a lack of understanding or even indifference to simple but life-saving practices that can help maintain heart health. Despite numerous awareness campaigns, poor lifestyle habits such as smoking, unhealthy diets, and a lack of physical activity persist across the country.

A drive through bustling urban centres like Lagos and Abuja reveals how the message of a healthy heart lifestyle is not taken seriously. Fast food restaurants, which are frequently visited by people of all ages, thrive on meals high in unhealthy fats and sodium, both of which contribute significantly to heart disease. The growing consumption of sugary drinks and processed snacks exacerbates the problem, with many people ignoring the importance of eating balanced, heart-healthy meals.

Consider the routine choices of many office workers. Long working hours frequently leave them with little time to exercise, and instead of choosing healthy lunch options, they turn to quick, unhealthy fixes. Despite repeated reminders from health professionals to walk more, sit less, and participate in physical activities, sedentary lifestyles are prevalent. This lack of action is especially concerning because physical inactivity is a major risk factor for heart disease.

Another example of indifference is the continued prevalence of smoking, particularly among youths. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), tobacco use is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease, accounting for a significant number of premature deaths. Despite government efforts to ban smoking in public places and raise tobacco taxes, the number of smokers remains high, with many unaware or unconcerned about the long-term harm smoking can cause to the heart.

According to a recent survey, many smokers underestimate the dangers of smoking, believing it to be a habit that can be quit at any time with no long-term consequences. Such misconceptions are dangerous, highlighting the need for more aggressive campaigns emphasising the irreversible harm smoking causes to heart health.

High blood pressure is known as the “silent killer” because it causes no symptoms until it is too late. Nonetheless, many Nigerians are unaware of their blood pressure levels, either due to a lack of routine checkups or because they do not see the need for them. Regular blood pressure monitoring and stress management are critical for preventing heart disease, but many people are more concerned with dealing with day-to-day stress than with its impact on their heart health.

For example, a recent community health outreach in Lagos revealed that many residents had dangerously high blood pressure without realising it. Despite efforts to provide free blood pressure screenings, only a small number of people showed up, and many of those who did were unwilling to make the necessary lifestyle changes after receiving their results.

Given the clear disconnect between heart health awareness and lifestyle choices, governments and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) must step up their efforts. While awareness campaigns exist, they need to be more effective, relatable, and consistent. One-time health campaigns are insufficient; there must be an ongoing effort to incorporate the message of a healthy heart into people’s daily lives.

Initiatives such as free heart health screenings, public health education programs, and partnerships with workplaces, schools, and community centres can have a significant impact. Furthermore, stricter enforcement of smoking regulations, clearer food labelling, and improved access to heart-healthy foods are critical steps that both the government and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) can implement.

As September 29 approaches, we must recognise that World Heart Day should be more than just a day for symbolic gestures, but also a critical time to refocus our efforts to promote heart health. The government, NGOs, and health professionals must step up their efforts to raise awareness and emphasise the importance of a healthy heart lifestyle. Equally important, people must take personal responsibility for making heart-healthy choices every day.

In a country where heart disease is becoming more prevalent, we cannot afford to be complacent. The message is clear: a healthy heart leads to a healthy life, and now is the time to act.