By Daphne Udeneje
The Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN), in partnership with Health Editors in Nigeria, convened a high-level workshop in Lagos to address the escalating public health crisis posed by non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases were identified as leading contributors to Nigeria’s mortality rates, showing the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to curb their impact.The workshop highlighted a combination of behavioral, environmental, and systemic factors fueling the rise of NCDs:
Behavioral Factors: Experts pointed to unhealthy diets high in processed foods, physical inactivity, tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, poor sleep habits, chronic stress, and obesity as major risk factors. These lifestyle choices are increasingly prevalent in both urban and rural communities, exacerbating the NCD burden.
Environmental Factors: Air pollution, climate change, biodiversity loss, exposure to harmful radiation, unsafe chemicals, poor working conditions, and inadequate access to clean air, green spaces, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) were flagged as significant contributors to NCD prevalence.
Systemic Challenges: Nigeria’s healthcare system faces critical weaknesses, including poor policy implementation, an overburdened infrastructure, and a low doctor-patient ratio, which hinder effective prevention and management of NCDs.
Recommendations for Action
Participants proposed a multi-pronged approach to tackle the NCD crisis, emphasizing prevention, education, and systemic reform:
Public Nutrition and Fitness Education: Nationwide campaigns to promote healthy eating and regular physical activity were recommended to encourage sustainable lifestyle changes.
Strengthening Primary and Preventive Healthcare: Experts called for increased investment in primary healthcare infrastructure and preventive care programs to improve early detection and management of NCDs.
Incentives for Healthier Products: Policies encouraging food and beverage companies to reformulate products to reduce sugar and unhealthy ingredients were proposed to address dietary risks.
Support for Small Businesses: Implementing economic policies to foster job creation and support small businesses was highlighted as a way to address socioeconomic factors linked to NCDs, such as stress and poverty.
Multisectoral Collaboration: A coordinated effort involving government agencies, healthcare providers, private sector stakeholders, and civil society was deemed essential for effective NCD management.
The workshop highlighted the media’s critical responsibility in shaping public health narratives. Journalists were urged to report accurately, sensitively, and responsibly on NCDs, leveraging their platforms to advocate for evidence-based policies and drive public awareness. By highlighting the risks of NCDs and promoting healthy behaviors, the media can play a transformative role in fostering a healthier Nigeria.
The BJAN and Health Editors called for urgent action to address the NCD epidemic, citing the need for data-driven policies and robust public education campaigns. “The rising burden of NCDs threatens Nigeria’s health and economic stability,” said a BJAN spokesperson. “Collaboration across sectors and informed media advocacy are vital to reversing this trend.”For further details, contact the Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria or visit their official website.