Experts say lifestyle responsible for NCD
Experts have identified unhealthy diet, physical inactivity or sedentary life style, tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption among others as major causes of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Nigeria. This is contrary to the belief that NCDs is caused by Sugar Sweetened Beverages (SSBs).
To correct this, the experts advocated a lifestyle change to include, regularly exercise, moderate and healthy eating habit and adequate rest.
This position was made at a One-day Capacity Building Workshop for journalists organized by the Brand Journalists’ Association of Nigeria (BJAN) recently.
The training with the theme: Rethinking the NCD Crisis: Having a Holistic Approach to the Debate in Nigeria, was held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Ikeja.
Despite the assumption that Sugar Sweetened Beverages (SSBs) consumption is a major contributor to non-communicable diseases, comparison with other countries showed that Nigeria is consuming sugar below the World Health Organisation’s limit of intake, says Dr. Ajibola Arewa, an Associate Professor, Lagos State University.
Speaking on the paper entitled: ‘Understanding the Many Factors Behind NCDs, Ojo said global sugar comparison shows Nigeria consumes less but NCDs is still on the rise suggesting that there are other underlying factors like choice of food and environment.
“The problem is not the sugar itself but its overuse and lack of regulation and to this end, there must be focus on educating the public, clear labeling and healthy alternatives, public nutrition and fitness education,” he said.
In her presentation, Dr. Yvonne Olaloku, Science Centre Manager, Nestle Wyeth Nutrition reiterated the importance of policies in reducing NCDs.
Speaking on her paper titled, ‘Ensuring the use of Evidence-Based Data as a Basis for Shaping Health Policies and Fiscal Interventions,’ Dr. Olaloku noted that, evidence-based data plays a crucial role in forming policy decisions in Nigeria by providing a foundation for effective and impactful policy making.
“This data which include statistics research findings, and other forms of evidence help policy makers understand the specific trends of the population, identify potential solutions and access the effectiveness of existing programme.
She pointed that by using data-driven insights, policy makers can make more informed decisions that lead to better health outcomes for citizens.
Dr. Godswill Iboma of Eko University of Medicine and Health Sciences (EkoUNIMED), Lagos, who spoke on the topic: ‘Integrating Life Style Modifications and Environmental Factors for Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Prevention’ said that according to European Journal of Internal Medicine (2022), estimates show that by 2030 NCDs will be responsible for about 52 million deaths worldwide therefore the need for lifestyle modifications through nutritional, exercise, psychological, social, environmental and pharmaceutical interventions.
Chairman, Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN), said the workshop was aimed primarily to boost the knowledge of participants who are journalists. Aside BJAN members the conference also had in attendance members of the Health writers association of Nigeria.
Key points and recommendations of the workshop were as follows:
1. NCDs are a major public health issue contributing significantly to mortality in Nigeria, with cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases being major contributors.
2. Lifestyle factors are key drivers. Unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption are major drivers of NCDs.
3. Environmental factors play a role: Environmental determinants such as air pollution, lack of green spaces, poor sanitation, and climate change contribute to NCDs.
4. Need for evidence-based policies: Policies informed by data and research are necessary to effectively address NCDs.
5. Importance of public education and awareness: Educating the public about healthy lifestyles and NCD risks is crucial for prevention and management.
6. Healthcare system strengthening: Improving healthcare infrastructure, access to care, and funding for NCD management is essential.
7. Collaboration and multisectoral approach. A collaborative effort among government agencies, healthcare providers, and stakeholders is necessary to combat NCDs.
Recommendations include, Public nutrition and fitness education, Promoting healthy eating habits and physical activity through public education, and strengthening primary healthcare services and promoting preventive care.
Caption: Vice Chairman, Brands Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN), Mr. Lukman Ishau; Associate Professor, Lagos State University, Dr. Ajibola Arewa; Science Centre Manager, Nestle Nutrition and Wyeth Nutrition, Dr. Yvonne Olaloku; Chairman, BJAN, Mr. Dan Obi and General Secretary, Adedayo Odulaja, at One Day Capacity Building Workshop for journalists.
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