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Prioritizing Health

Combating Unhealthy Habits Affecting Nigerians

By PassthemPublished 11 months ago 3 min read
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With the alarming increase in non-communicable diseases and sudden deaths, experts are urging Nigerians to embrace healthy living as a matter of urgency. Unhealthy habits, identified by medical professionals, have been recognized as detrimental to human health. These habits include lack of physical activity, poor nutrition, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyles, sleep deprivation, stress, and poor hygiene.

In today's fast-paced world, individuals often find themselves caught up in daily routines that prioritize convenience and comfort over their own well-being. However, they may not realize that the choices they make on a daily basis can significantly impact their overall health. Dr. Innocent Okoro, a family health physician, highlights the importance of the foods we eat, the level of physical activity we engage in, our sleep patterns, and our self-care practices in determining our health outcomes.

Echoing these concerns, Dr. Omokhudu Idogho, the managing director of the Society for Family Health, emphasizes that non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and pulmonary diseases are largely driven by lifestyle choices and habits. Lack of exercise is associated with obesity, hypertensive heart disease, and diabetes, while smoking, including the use of Shisha, is known to contribute to a range of diseases, including various types of cancer. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver diseases and cancers. Additionally, improper dietary habits also contribute significantly to poor health outcomes. Idogho stresses the importance of appropriate weight management, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and responsible alcohol consumption as key steps towards improving health.

The Society for Family Health is taking proactive measures to address these challenges through strategic interventions in the area of self-care. They are working closely with communities to encourage the adoption, adaptation, and formalization of health-supportive behaviors. By empowering individuals to make informed choices about their health, they hope to mitigate the impact of unhealthy habits and promote healthier lifestyles.

Dr. Chira Obiora, a consultant family physician at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, emphasizes the significance of practicing a healthy lifestyle. He defines health as a state of complete physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, extending beyond the mere absence of disease. Wellness, in his view, refers to an individual being in an optimal state of health on all levels, including emotionally and spiritually. He further emphasizes that maintaining a healthy weight is an essential aspect of overall well-being.

Dr. Obiora explains that many of the diseases we encounter, whether communicable or non-communicable, are influenced by our daily experiences and surroundings. Factors such as stress from various sources (traffic, work, economic pressures, etc.) can contribute to chronic illnesses. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize the impact our lifestyle choices have on our health. Practicing good health and sleep hygiene, along with maintaining proper personal hygiene, are fundamental to overall well-being.

In addition to individual efforts, there is a need for a comprehensive approach involving government bodies, healthcare organizations, and educational institutions. Public health campaigns and initiatives can play a vital role in raising awareness about the importance of healthy habits and providing resources and support for behavior change. Policies that promote access to healthy food options, create smoke-free environments, and encourage physical activity in schools and communities can make a significant impact.

Moreover, healthcare professionals have a crucial role in promoting preventive care and offering guidance on healthy lifestyle choices. By integrating health education into routine medical consultations, they can empower patients to make informed decisions and take control of their well-being.

It is essential to recognize that healthy habits are not achieved overnight but require consistent effort and commitment. Small steps towards a healthier lifestyle, such as incorporating physical activity into daily routines, making nutritious food choices, and managing stress effectively, can have a profound impact on long-term health outcomes.

Ultimately, the collective adoption of healthy habits will not only reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases but also contribute to a more productive and thriving society. By prioritizing health and making conscious choices to break free from unhealthy habits, Nigerians can embrace a brighter and healthier future for themselves and future generations.

In conclusion, it is of utmost importance for Nigerians to prioritize their health by adopting healthier habits. The prevalence of non-communicable diseases calls for immediate action, and individuals must take responsibility for their well-being. By incorporating regular physical activity, proper nutrition, avoiding harmful substances, managing stress levels, and practicing good hygiene, individuals can significantly improve their overall health outcomes. It is through these collective efforts that Nigeria can address the growing health challenges and promote a healthier nation.

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