World Heart Day: NOA urges Osun residents to prioritise heart health

The National Orientation Agency, NOA, Osun State Directorate, has urged Nigerians to prioritise heart health and adopt healthier lifestyles to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

The agency made the call in a statement by its spokesperson, Bunmi Olaseinde, on behalf of the State Director, Adebiyi Adefarasin Stephen on Tuesday, as the world marked World Heart Day 2026, with a focus on raising awareness about heart disease and stroke.

The theme of the 2026 edition is “Don’t Miss a Beat.”

Adefarasin, in the statement, said greater awareness and preventive measures were essential to reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases among Nigerians.

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“High blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, tobacco use, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity and excessive alcohol consumption are major risk factors for cardiovascular diseases,” he said.

Adefarasin urged citizens to regularly check their blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels, saying early detection could help people take appropriate steps to protect their health.

He also advised Nigerians to reduce their consumption of salt, sugar and fried foods while eating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

The NOA director encouraged citizens to exercise regularly, avoid tobacco, limit alcohol consumption, manage stress and ensure adequate rest as part of efforts to maintain a healthy heart.

He warned Nigerians against ignoring symptoms, including chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden weakness, facial drooping and speech difficulties, stressing the importance of seeking prompt medical attention.

“Know your numbers, make healthy choices, stay active and don’t ignore warning signs. Don’t miss the beat — your heart matters,” Adefarasin said.

He called on families, community leaders, schools, workplaces and health institutions to promote heart-healthy habits, noting that daily lifestyle choices could contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

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