Public health experts have warned that it poses significant health risks for Nigerians with chronic illnesses to engage in the current hunger protests taking place throughout the country.
This warning comes amid a surge of nationwide demonstrations that have seen growing involvement from the public.
NAIJATRAFFIC reports that protests have spread across the nation as citizens voice their frustration over ongoing economic difficulties.
The #EndbadgovernanceinNigeria protests commenced on August 1, 2024, aiming to draw government attention to the challenges faced by the general populace.
Our correspondent observed that protesters in various areas of Lagos defied a court order restricting their movements to certain locations, taking to the streets, roads, and Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park to voice their concerns.
According to NAIJATRAFFIC, medical professionals have indicated that protests, which involve considerable physical activity and emotional strain, could significantly affect individuals with heart diseases, respiratory conditions, mental health issues, and those with Sickle Cell Disease or mobility challenges.
They urged individuals with existing health concerns to seek alternative means of supporting causes important to them.
Dr. Mojirola Fasik, a Consultant Public Health Physician at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital in Kwara State, highlighted the health risks tied to protesting, especially for those with chronic ailments.
Fasik stated that individuals with cardiovascular diseases, such as heart conditions and hypertension, face increased risks due to the physical demands and emotional stress experienced during protests.
She noted that individuals with respiratory conditions, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, might see their symptoms exacerbated by exposure to dust, smoke, and tear gas.
Furthermore, she mentioned that immunocompromised individuals, such as those receiving chemotherapy or living with HIV/AIDS, have a heightened risk of infections in overcrowded and unsanitary settings.
According to her, individuals with mental health issues, such as anxiety disorders and PTSD, could experience severe symptoms due to the disorderly environment of protests.
She said, “Several health conditions can make it risky for certain individuals to participate in protests or crowded events. Conditions like heart disease, hypertension, and arrhythmias can be worsened by physical stress, heat, or emotional stress of the protest.
“Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and other lung diseases can be worsened by tear gas, smoke, dust, or physical exertion.
“Individuals undergoing chemotherapy, those with HIV and AIDS, or those on any other immunosuppressive medications and also those with severe malnutrition are at higher risk for infections, especially in crowded and unsanitary conditions.
“Anxiety disorders, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder , or panic disorders can be triggered by the chaotic and stressful environment of a protest.
“Individuals with Sickle Cell Disease can also be affected by exposure to heat, physical exertion and the stressful environment. And individuals with arthritis, multiple sclerosis, some sickle cell disease patients with Avascular Necrosis of the head of the femur or other conditions that affect mobility may find it difficult to move quickly or avoid dangerous situations.”
On how protest can worsen heart disease, the public health expert said, “Chronic health issues such as heart conditions or respiratory problems can impact one’s ability to participate in protests by making physical demands like standing for long periods or navigating through crowded areas challenging. The stress of these environments can exacerbate symptoms, leading to fatigue, shortness of breath, increased heart rate, and other health complications.
“Due to a lack of physical stamina, conditions like heart disease or COPD can limit endurance, making it difficult to march or stand for long periods. Also, because of their increased vulnerability to environmental hazards, people with respiratory issues are more susceptible to dust, tear gas or smoke inhalation. The health conditions like hypertension or anxiety get worsened by elevated stress levels.
“Also, other chronic health issues, especially those with arthritis or other musculoskeletal conditions, may struggle with prolonged standing or walking, limiting their mobility.”
A physician warned that standing for extended periods and navigating crowded areas can lead to complications like dizziness, heat stress, and worsened joint pain for individuals with arthritis or mobility issues.
She advised pregnant women, young children, and those with chronic conditions to avoid protests due to heat exposure and injury risks.
For those who still want to participate, she recommended planning carefully, including staying on the edges, carrying necessary medications, and using mobility aids.
She also suggested that protests should have designated rest areas, first aid stations, and accessible routes. Alternatively, individuals can engage in digital activism, advocacy, and fundraising to support social movements while prioritizing health and safety.
Another public health physician corroborated her statement, highlighting the risks of physical demonstrations, including respiratory and cardiovascular complications, anxiety, and exposure to harmful substances like dust, smoke, and tear gas.
“For individuals with chronic illnesses, even moderate physical activity can lead to serious complications. Protests often involve unpredictable scenarios that can increase stress and physical strain, which can be dangerous.
“For individuals with mental health conditions, such as PTSD or severe anxiety disorders, the chaotic nature of protests can be overwhelming and detrimental to their well-being,” he stated.
He appealed people to prioritise health and safety by planning participation carefully, “utilising necessary medical supplies and seeking alternative ways to support social movements, such as digital activism and advocacy.
“There are many ways to advocate for change that do not involve physical risk. Online campaigns, letter-writing, and community organising are all effective methods of engagement that can ensure individuals with chronic conditions remain safe while still making an impact,” he summarized.
Professor Best Ordinioha, a leading expert in Community Medicine and Public Health at the University of Port Harcourt, cautioned individuals with chronic conditions to carefully weigh the risks of participating in protests.
He emphasized the significant health concerns that can affect those with cardiovascular and respiratory issues during demonstrations, such as hypertension, heart disease, and asthma.
Prolonged physical exertion and emotional stress during protests can put a strain on the heart and lungs, leading to severe complications or even sudden death in vulnerable individuals.
To participate safely, he advised individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions to prioritize their health and consider alternative forms of activism, such as traditional and social media engagement, to contribute to social movements without compromising their well-being.
“Mostly cardio-respiratory diseases like hypertension, heart disease, bronchitis and allergic diseases like asthma are affected by the protest.
“The exertions put a lot of stress on the fragile lungs and heart, which can malfunction leading to the sudden death of the person
“Standing for long can result in fainting attacks as blood pools in the legs, resulting in short supply to the brain
Crowded areas are known for their poor air quality, which can trigger asthmatic attack, and respiratory distress due to lowered oxygen in the air.”
When inquired how people with disabilities or chronic health conditions can fulfill their desire to participate in protests, the professor highlighted , “They should engage in traditional and social media activism, providing the intellectual power for the protest.
