The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Mrs Nonye Soludo, has urged Nigerians to adopt more deliberate health habits and undergo regular medical check-ups in response to the rising number of deaths linked to cardiovascular diseases.
Mrs Soludo, who is the founder of the non-governmental advocacy group Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, made the call while speaking recently in Awka, the Anambra State capital. She noted that widespread neglect of routine heart examinations has significantly contributed to the growing incidence of cardiovascular conditions such as heart failure, cardiac arrest, and stroke.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death globally, claiming an estimated 17.9 million lives each year. In Nigeria, health experts have warned that deaths from heart-related illnesses are increasing at an alarming rate, driven largely by poor health-seeking behaviour, limited preventive care, and low public awareness.
Mrs Soludo cautioned that cardiovascular-related deaths often occur suddenly and are difficult to manage, particularly during acute episodes, making prevention a critical public health priority.
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She stressed that most cardiovascular diseases are preventable if individuals address modifiable risk factors, including tobacco use, unhealthy diets, obesity, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol consumption.
Emphasising the importance of healthy living, the governor’s wife said regular physical exercise, balanced nutrition, and routine heart checks are essential to reducing cardiovascular risks. She also advised individuals with a family history of heart disease to be especially mindful of their lifestyle choices and to avoid habits that could worsen underlying conditions.
Mrs Soludo explained that a key objective of the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative is to promote a lasting culture of wellness that empowers people to make informed decisions about their health. She said the initiative aims to keep preventive healthcare at the forefront of public consciousness, particularly in addressing cardiovascular diseases and nutrition-related health challenges.