Every year, over 20.5 million people die from heart disease, with more than 75% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries.
This alarming statistic was revealed by the President of the Nigerian Cardiac Society, Prof. Augustine Odili, in a press release issued in Ilorin, Kwara State, as part of the 2024 World Heart Day activities.
The theme for this year’s observance is “#UseHeartforAction#,” and it aims to raise global awareness of heart health and encourage proactive measures.
World Heart Day, celebrated on September 29, is an initiative of the World Heart Federation, in collaboration with the World Health Organization, to combat heart disease and promote cardiovascular health.
Prof. Odili emphasized that the Nigerian Cardiac Society will continue its awareness campaigns until 2026, urging individuals and governments to take cardiovascular health seriously.
“We are shifting from mere awareness to empowering people with clear goals for protecting their heart health,” he said.
He further highlighted the increasing prevalence of heart disease in developing nations like Nigeria, largely driven by urbanization, pollution, and unhealthy lifestyle habits.
According to Odili, 80% of premature deaths caused by cardiovascular diseases (CVD) can be prevented through simple lifestyle changes, such as a healthier diet, regular exercise, and stress management.
He warned that heart disease-related deaths are projected to rise to over 23 million by 2030, making it a critical public health issue.
Smoking, poor diet, lack of exercise, and alcohol consumption were listed among the major risk factors for heart disease.
These behaviours contribute to conditions like hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes—all of which elevate the risk of cardiovascular complications.
In Nigeria, three in ten adults suffer from high blood pressure, yet many remain unaware of their condition.
Only 7% of hypertensive patients in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa achieve effective blood pressure control, making it a pressing challenge for public health.
Prof. Odili urged individuals to make conscious lifestyle changes and called on policymakers to develop strategic plans to combat heart disease and its risk factors. He concluded by encouraging a collective effort to tackle cardiovascular diseases, which remain the world’s leading cause of death.
