The wife of the Anambra State governor, Nonye Soludo, has attributed the rising cases of cardiovascular diseases in Nigeria to the neglect of routine heart checks by many people.

Mrs Soludo told journalists on Monday in Awka that such neglect had contributed to the increase in heart-related ailments.

She listed heart failure, cardiac arrest, and stroke as the most common cardiovascular conditions.

According to her, the growing figures of cardiovascular-related deaths call for a more conscious and intentional approach to medical care and healthy living habits.

“The World Health Organisation reports that cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally, accounting for more than 17.9 million deaths annually.

“In Nigeria, deaths arising from cardiovascular diseases are increasing rapidly due to poor medical check-ups, negligence, ignorance, and other related factors,” she noted.

Speaking on the dangers associated with cardiovascular diseases, Mrs Soludo explained that deaths resulting from such conditions were often sudden and difficult to manage, especially when they occur at acute stages.

She said most cardiovascular diseases could be prevented by addressing risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diets and obesity, physical inactivity, and harmful use of alcohol.

The governor’s wife emphasised the importance of healthy living in curbing cardiovascular deaths.

Mrs Soludo said that regular exercise, healthy eating, and the consumption of organic foods were as important as frequent heart checks.

She also advised individuals with a hereditary risk of cardiovascular diseases to be more cautious about their health habits and avoid lifestyles capable of worsening their conditions.

(NAN)