West Africa: The Burden of Heart Diseases in Nigeria

What the report says

Nigeria is facing a growing burden of cardiovascular disease, according to a Leadership editorial carried by AllAfrica from Abuja. The piece says rising rates of hypertension and diabetes, along with unhealthy lifestyles and limited access to continuous care, are contributing to preventable illness and death across the country.

The article ties the concern to World Heart Day, observed on September 29, and notes that this year’s theme, "Don’t Miss a Beat," emphasizes spotting heart-disease warning signs early. Citing the World Health Organisation, it says about 22 million Nigerians aged 30 to 79 live with hypertension, while only around 13% have it under control. The editorial also highlights projections that the number of people with hypertension in Nigeria could climb significantly by 2030.

The report argues that the problem is not only medical but also linked to health financing and access. It says many patients pay out of pocket for screening and medicines, which can interrupt treatment, and that Nigeria has too few cardiologists for its population. The Nigerian Cardiac Society is cited as urging stronger prevention, treatment and health promotion efforts by federal and state authorities.

The editorial calls for routine blood pressure checks, better primary healthcare, wider health insurance coverage and more reliable access to essential medicines. It says prevention and early treatment are possible, but only if health systems and public awareness improve.