Silent Killer: Non-Communicable Diseases Claim 30% of Nigerian Lives Annually – CAPPA

In a sobering revelation that highlights a growing health crisis in Nigeria, the Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has reported that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) now account for a staggering 30% of annual deaths in the country.

This alarming statistic positions NCDs as one of the most significant health challenges facing Nigerians today, yet it remains largely under-discussed in our national health discourse.

According to CAPPA's comprehensive report, diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory conditions are silently claiming lives across all socioeconomic classes in Nigeria, with urban populations particularly vulnerable to this growing epidemic.

"What makes this situation particularly concerning is that many of these deaths are preventable with proper awareness, lifestyle modifications, and timely medical intervention," notes Dr. Akinbode Oluwafemi, Executive Director of CAPPA, during a recent health policy forum in Abuja.

The organization has highlighted several contributing factors to this crisis, including:

• Increasing consumption of processed foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats
• Rising tobacco and alcohol use, particularly among young Nigerians
• Sedentary lifestyles becoming more common with urbanization
• Limited access to preventive healthcare services
• Inadequate public awareness about NCD risk factors

Health experts are calling for urgent government intervention through comprehensive policies addressing these risk factors, including stronger regulation of tobacco and alcohol products, improved urban planning to encourage physical activity, and enhanced primary healthcare systems capable of early NCD detection and management.

"We cannot afford to continue focusing exclusively on communicable diseases while NCDs silently claim so many Nigerian lives," emphasized Professor Chika Nwankwo of the Nigerian Medical Association. "A balanced approach addressing both disease categories is essential for public health."

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Do you know someone affected by a non-communicable disease? What lifestyle changes have you made to reduce your risk? Share your experiences in the comments section below.

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