Healthcare professionals stress the importance of regular health screenings in preventing sudden deaths caused by non-communicable diseases like hypertension and heart attacks.
They advocate for routine checkups as an effective way to practice preventive medicine and detect illnesses early.
By undergoing regular assessments, individuals can receive timely medical interventions and reduce complications from these diseases, thereby decreasing the risk of sudden death.
Particularly for individuals over the age of 40, regular checkups are recommended for improving longevity and overall health.
Men are highlighted as a group that can benefit significantly from regular health assessments due to their higher susceptibility to certain health conditions associated with sudden death.
Routine checkups are crucial because some conditions may not show visible symptoms in their initial stages, underscoring the importance of early detection through screenings.
Monitoring indicators such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels through regular checkups allows healthcare providers to implement effective management strategies, preventing serious complications like heart attacks and strokes.
Okafor said, “Moreover, these checkups offer an opportunity for men to engage in discussions about their overall health and wellness. Doctors can provide personalised advice on lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, which are vital in reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
“For example, a balanced diet and regular physical activity can help manage weight, lower cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of diabetes, all contributing factors to heart health.
“Preventive screenings conducted during checkups are another critical component. Tests for conditions such as prostate cancer or colorectal cancer, which can have high survival rates if detected early, are essential. He stressed that regular screenings increase the chances of early diagnosis and treatment, significantly improving outcomes and reducing the risk of sudden death from these diseases.
Continuing, he said, “Furthermore, checkups can address mental health issues, which are sometimes overlooked but can significantly impact overall health. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can influence physical health and well-being.
“Your doctor can offer support and treatment options to address these issues, contributing to a lower risk of sudden death. However, regular health checkups are a fundamental practice for reducing the risk of sudden death among men.
“They allow for early detection of risk factors and diseases, facilitate preventive care, and offer opportunities for lifestyle and mental health improvements.
“By prioritising these routine assessments, men can take proactive steps towards maintaining their health and potentially avoiding life-threatening situations.”
Dr. Adesanya Olusegun-Joseph, a Consultant Cardiologist, emphasized that comprehensive health assessments are crucial in reducing sudden death rates in Nigeria.
He highlighted sudden death as a significant public health concern, particularly among men, and advised them to adopt healthy habits, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding a sedentary lifestyle to minimize the risk of cardiovascular sudden deaths and strokes.
Dr. Olusegun-Joseph stressed that hypertension is the leading cause of sudden deaths in the country, urging men to be vigilant about their cardiovascular health and mindful of their food and drink choices.
“Regular BP checks will save a lot of lives. Those with elevated blood pressure should stick to a healthy lifestyle that won’t worsen their cardiovascular health.
“They need healthy exercise but must check the condition of their hearts before taking on any tedious exercise to prevent sudden death. Avoidance of alcoholic beverages should be considered too,” Olusegun-Joseph highlighted.
