By Lilian U. Okoro
Lagos: A Consultant Neurologist, Dr Adedunni Olusanya, has urged Nigerians to regularly check their blood pressure and adopt healthy lifestyles to prevent stroke.
Olusanya, also a Senior Lecturer, Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, gave the advice on Tuesday.
She spoke at a webinar titled: “Protect Your Brain: Secrets to Preventing Stroke”, organised by Lifestyle Champions International in Lagos.
She said hypertension was a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, particularly stroke and heart attack, which were increasingly becoming common causes of death.
Citing the World Health Organisation, Olusanya said stroke was the second leading cause of death globally, with about 101 million people living with its aftermath.
She said about 90 per cent of strokes were linked to modifiable factors, including unhealthy diet, excessive weight, smoking, diabetes and physical inactivity.
Others, she said, included harmful use of alcohol and high cholesterol.
Olusanya advised adults to reduce their salt intake and consume more fruits, vegetables and legumes, while limiting red meat and dairy products.
“As an adult, try to avoid foods that can trigger risk factors for hypertension, such as high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood sugar and excessive weight.
“Eat more fruits and vegetables, avoid stress, avoid salty foods, especially adding salt when food is already done, and take enough rest,” she said.
The neurologist described hypertension as a silent condition that could lead to stroke or sudden death if not detected and properly managed.
“Someone who is apparently fit may be at risk. That is why routine check-up is of utmost importance,” she said.
Olusanya also called on governments at all levels and non-governmental organisations to intensify grassroots education on blood pressure and healthy living.
“There is a need for massive education campaigns on BP.
“Nothing stops the government from carrying health workers from house to house to check people’s BP.
“If that is done, people may be encouraged to get their BP regularly checked,” she said.
(NAN)
Source: News Agency of Nigeria
