Babatunji Wusu –
- Health Crisis: Professor Ayodele Omotoso, during the 272nd inaugural lecture at the University of Ilorin, highlighted the rising death toll from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Nigeria, attributing 27% of deaths to NCDs, which claimed 43 million lives in 2021 alone.
- Hypertension Stats: He noted that 34.1% of Nigerian adults had hypertension in 2021, a trend linked to economic challenges and urban lifestyles.
- Key Factors: Unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption are major contributors to NCDs in Nigeria.
- Call to Action: Omotoso emphasized the need for more research, collaborative efforts across multiple disciplines, health education programs, and the inclusion of NCD-related topics in academic curricula.
- Policy Suggestions: He urged the government to implement policies promoting healthy lifestyles, including regulations on tobacco and alcohol, and the establishment of community sports and recreational facilities.
- Healthcare Access: Omotoso also called for improved healthcare access in underserved areas and support for NCDs treatment through National Health Insurance programs.
- Global Collaboration: He advocated for partnerships with international organizations, as well as the use of technology and innovation in NCDs management and prevention.
In his 272nd inaugural lecture at the University of Ilorin, Professor Ayodele Omotoso emphasized the growing threat of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Nigeria. He pointed out that NCDs account for 27% of deaths in the country, with hypertension affecting 34.1% of Nigerian adults as of 2021.
Omotoso, a former Provost of the College of Health Sciences, discussed the causes of NCDs, including unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, smoking, and alcohol consumption, and stressed the urgent need for collective efforts to address the crisis. He called for enhanced research, better public health education, and the integration of NCD awareness into academic curricula.
He also advocated for government policies promoting healthier lifestyles, better access to healthcare, and increased funding for NCD prevention and control. Omotoso further suggested that Nigeria collaborate with international organizations and leverage technology for better NCD management and prevention.
The lecture was attended by a range of dignitaries, including traditional rulers, university staff, and friends of the professor.
