Embrace Regular Health Checks to prevent Sudden death, physician urge Nigerian
Medical experts have said regular health checks are crucial in reducing the risk of sudden death from non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and heart attack.
The physicians noted that routine health assessments offer preventive medicine and remain a proactive approach to maintaining good health and picking diseases early.
According to them, regular checkups allow for timely interventions and reduce complications from non-communicable which often lead to sudden death.
The doctors urged those aged 40 and above to ensure regular checkups if they wished to live longer and sickness-free lives.
Sudden death, according to an online medical journal, ScienceDirect, is a non-violent, unexpected death occurring from a natural cause within hours of the onset of symptoms in a healthy.
Speaking with PUNCH Healthwise in different interviews, the physicians said men, in particular, benefit from regular checkups as they often have a higher incidence of certain health conditions that can lead to sudden death.
A Family Health Physician at the Anambra State Ministry of Health, Dr Chidumeje Okafor, said these conditions may not always present noticeable symptoms in their early stages, making routine checkups critical for early detection.
For instance, Okafor noted, that high blood pressure or cholesterol levels might not cause immediate discomfort but could lead to serious complications like heart attacks or strokes if left untreated.
He emphasised that regular checkups allow physicians to monitor these indicators and implement strategies to manage them effectively.
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.”
Speaking further, a Consultant Cardiologist at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, Dr Adesanya Olusegun-Joseph, said comprehensive health assessment was key to reducing the rate of sudden death in the country.
Olusegun-Joseph said that sudden death is a major public health challenge and urged men especially to exercise themselves, maintain a healthy diet, and shun a sedentary lifestyle which are risk factors for cardiovascular sudden deaths and stroke.
He said that hypertension was responsible for most sudden deaths in the country, advising the public, especially the men to be mindful of their cardiovascular health and be cautious of what they eat and drink.
“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 added..
