The Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF) has revealed that cardiovascular diseases claim the lives of over 235,000 Nigerians each year. This alarming statistic was shared during a press conference in Lagos to commemorate the 2026 World Heart Day, observed on September 29. The NHF emphasized the need for early detection and preventive measures to combat the rising incidence of heart-related conditions in the country.

The theme for this year's World Heart Day was "Healthy Hearts: From the Classroom to the Families," aligning with the global campaign from the World Heart Federation titled "Don’t Miss a Beat." Dr. Kingsley Akinroye, Executive Director of the NHF, underscored that many heart diseases develop silently from childhood, making early education and awareness essential.

Dr. Akinroye pointed out that cardiovascular diseases are not solely associated with older individuals, stating that prevention should start early in life. He urged Nigerians to prioritize regular medical check-ups, particularly for blood pressure, as hypertension is one of the most prevalent cardiovascular issues in Nigeria. "Do not wait for the heart to shout before you discover that you have a heart disease. By the time your heart makes noise, it’s getting too late," he cautioned.

The NHF identified five major risk factors contributing to cardiovascular diseases: tobacco use, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, harmful alcohol consumption, and air pollution. Dr. Akinroye highlighted the dangers of excessive salt intake, referring to it as a common dietary poison that can lead to increased cardiovascular risks. He urged families to promote healthier eating habits among children and engage them in regular physical activities.

In addition to personal responsibility, the NHF called for improved healthcare infrastructure, advocating for functional primary healthcare centers to facilitate basic cardiovascular screenings and early detection. The Foundation also highlighted the importance of government investment in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, emphasizing the need for local production of essential medicines to reduce dependence on imports.

Mr. Dele Adetiba, the NHF's Director of Communications, stressed that early education can significantly influence healthier lifestyle choices within families. He noted that children could play a pivotal role in encouraging adults to adopt better health practices.

The NHF also reintroduced its "Keep the Beat" challenge, which encourages Nigerians to engage in regular physical activity as part of a broader initiative to promote lifelong heart health. As the nation grapples with the high burden of cardiovascular diseases, the NHF's call to action highlights the urgent need for collective efforts in education, prevention, and healthcare access to combat this growing health crisis.