Save Our Heritage Initiative (SOHI), an Abuja based Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) on Tuesday urged Nigerians to ensure routine heart checks to reduce the spate of deaths by cardiovascular diseases.
Ms May Ikokwu, Chief Executive Officer of the organisation said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.
Ikokwu who is also the Secretary General, Coalition Societies for Rights of Older Persons in Nigeria (COSROPIN), called on Nigerians especially the elderly to always seek the services of cardiologists for a stable and healthy heart.
“You can prevent cardiovascular diseases by developing a habit of routine heart checks as well as counselling.
“Such routine check will help the doctor to advise you on a healthy lifestyle that can lower your risk of cardiovascular diseases.
“If you already have cardiovascular disease, staying as healthy as possible can reduce the chances of it getting worse’’, she advised.
The SOHI boss who reiterated the need for priority attentions to be given to the heart, said smoking was a risky behaviour.
According to her, “if you smoke, you should try to give up as soon as possible.”
Ikokwu explained that balanced diet was vital in addressing cardiovascular challenges.
“A healthy, balanced diet is recommended for a healthy heart which include low levels of saturated fat, low levels of sugar, plenty of fibre and wholegrain foods and plenty of fruit and vegetables.
“Regular exercise is also advised for all adults; at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, such as cycling or brisk walking.
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“If you find it difficult to do this, start at a level you feel comfortable with and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your activity as your fitness improves, ” Ikokwu said.
She added that people should always consult their doctors for medication in situations where there was high risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, in order to reduce the risk.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is the general term used for health conditions affecting the heart which is primarily responsible for sudden deaths caused by heart attacks, heart failures among others. (NAN)
