Strategic Interventions to Combat the Rising Threat of Non-Communicable Diseases in Nigeria
Public health experts have highlighted a range of strategic interventions aimed at reducing the burden and fatality rate of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Nigeria. These efforts emphasize the need for a multi-sectoral approach, policy reforms, and a shift in public awareness to address the growing crisis of conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases.
At a recent one-day capacity-building workshop for journalists, hosted by the Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria, experts stressed the importance of prevention, lifestyle modifications, and improved access to primary healthcare as essential tools in combating NCDs. The event focused on the theme “Rethinking the NCDs Crisis: Having a Holistic Approach to the Debate in Nigeria,” reflecting the urgency of the issue.
The Escalating Crisis of NCDs
Experts have raised concerns about the increasing prevalence of NCDs in Nigeria, warning that without immediate action, related deaths could surge. Conditions like hypertension, diabetes, cancers, stroke, and chronic respiratory diseases are already claiming more lives, driven by factors such as poor lifestyle habits, unhealthy diets, and weak environmental standards.
Dr. Ajibola Arewa, a public health expert, pointed out that NCDs accounted for 24 percent of total deaths in Nigeria in 2011, rising to 29 percent in 2021—a significant increase of over 21 percent within nine years. He emphasized that without stronger policies and an evidence-based approach, the country may face a major health crisis in the coming years.
Addressing the Root Causes
Arewa cited data from the World Health Organization, highlighting that the current doctor-patient ratio of 1 to 5,000 is far below the WHO-recommended 1 to 600. He argued that NCDs are not caused by a single factor but result from multiple issues, including poor lifestyle choices, unhealthy diets, and a strained healthcare system.
He criticized the approach of taxing sugar-sweetened beverages as a simplistic solution, stating that it does not address the root causes of NCDs. Instead, he urged the government to implement comprehensive policies that include public education, proper food labeling, and access to healthier alternatives.
The Need for Policy Implementation
Arewa called for a multi-sectoral approach and the enforcement of existing health policies to tackle the burden of NCDs. He emphasized that integrating NCD services into primary healthcare systems across the country is crucial. This would help reduce out-of-pocket expenses and ensure better access to care.
Failure to act swiftly, he warned, could overwhelm Nigeria’s healthcare system and reverse progress made in other areas of public health. He stressed that effective policies, if fully implemented, would lead to adequate infrastructure, better access to care, and an increase in the number of doctors per patient.
Research and Collaboration
Dr. Yvonne Olaloku, a public health consultant, echoed the need for rigorous research to inform health policies. She emphasized that policies must be based on reliable data to ensure they address real problems and target the right populations. Strong collaboration between researchers, policymakers, healthcare providers, and civil society is essential for effective policy formulation and implementation.
Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
Dr. Godswill Iboma, a retired Chief Medical Officer, highlighted key risk factors for NCDs, including smoking, physical inactivity, alcohol abuse, high salt intake, and air pollution. He stressed that lifestyle and environment are the biggest drivers of NCDs and that changing how people eat, move, work, and live could lead to significant reductions in preventable diseases.
The Role of Media in Public Health Reporting
In his welcome address, Mr. Daniel Obi, President of the Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria, underscored the critical role of journalists in public health reporting. He encouraged organizations to invest in media training and equip journalists with the tools to report health issues accurately, sensitively, and responsibly.
The discussions at the workshop underscored the urgent need for a coordinated effort involving government, healthcare professionals, researchers, and the media to address the growing challenge of NCDs in Nigeria.