Factors Contributing to Rising Cardiovascular Diseases in Nigeria: Insights from the Nigerian Cardiac Society Conference

The Nigerian Cardiac Society (NCS) has identified several factors contributing to the increasing cases of cardiovascular diseases in the country. These include physical inactivity, a rise in smokers, consumption of junk food high in saturated fats, and a decline in the consumption of local fiber-rich meals. The NCS expressed their concerns at their 52nd Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference, which focused on cardiovascular care throughout life stages, held in Lagos.

Professor Augustine Odili, the President of the NCS and an expert in cardiovascular medicine, highlighted the growing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases in low and middle-income countries, particularly Nigeria. He urged citizens to adopt health-seeking behavior and emphasized the detrimental effects of excessive calorie intake from carbohydrates and fats on health.

According to Professor Odili, sedentary lifestyles, increasing obesity rates, reduced physical activity, higher smoking rates, and the consumption of junk food containing saturated fats are major contributors to cardiovascular diseases. Excessive calorie intake, whether from carbohydrates or fats, leads to the conversion of carbohydrates into fats, which is detrimental to health.

Regarding the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the healthcare sector, Professor Odili acknowledged the potential of using machines and data to make predictions about illnesses and prognosis. However, he also expressed concerns about the availability and accuracy of data, as well as the potential for data manipulation and hacking.

Professor Amam Mhakwem, Chairperson of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), also addressed the conference. She lamented the loss of highly skilled cardiologists from Nigeria, citing the "JAPA syndrome" as a major challenge. Many young and experienced doctors are leaving the country in search of better working conditions and higher remuneration. This shortage of skilled personnel is particularly acute in specialized areas like cardiology.

Despite these challenges, Professor Mhakwem emphasized the need to maintain high standards of cardiovascular care. She called for a paradigm shift in healthcare delivery and training of cardiovascular specialists, suggesting the exploration of new methods to deliver care across all life stages, from prevention to palliation, including web-based approaches.