Physicians Warn of Rising Heart Failure Cases Among Young Nigerians

Medical experts have raised alarm over the growing incidence of heart failure among young Nigerians, linking the trend to poor lifestyle habits, rising obesity, lack of exercise, and substance abuse.

They expressed concern that the disease, often underdiagnosed and poorly managed, now claims lives faster than some cancers. Many patients, they said, die either during hospital admission or shortly after discharge, largely due to late presentation, poor access to treatment, and low public awareness.

Cardiologists noted that unlike in Western countries where heart failure typically occurs from age 70, Nigerians are increasingly affected between ages 55 and 59, cutting down people in their most productive years and compounding the nation’s economic struggles.

Statistics from the World Health Organisation show that cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of death globally, accounting for 17.9 million deaths annually. Four out of five CVD deaths are caused by heart attacks and strokes, while one-third occur prematurely in people under 70.

Professor of Medicine and Consultant Cardiologist at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, James Ogunmodede, described the situation as a looming epidemic if urgent interventions are not introduced.

“Heart failure carries an unacceptably high mortality rate. More than 10 per cent of patients die during admission, and nearly 50 per cent within five years of diagnosis. These figures are worse than those of some cancers,” he warned.

Ogunmodede called for aggressive reforms, including nationwide public health education, early screening for hypertension, routine medical check-ups in schools and workplaces, and government-backed subsidies for treatment.

“Treatment should be made free. Many patients lose their earning capacity once diagnosed, while the cost of care remains high. If left unchecked, the burden of heart failure could overwhelm our health system,” he added.

He also stressed the importance of lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, moderating salt intake, and regular exercise.

Supporting his views, Dr. Ramon Moronkola, a Consultant Cardiologist at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, highlighted the need to tackle modifiable risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity.

“Healthy diets rich in fruits and vegetables, reduced saturated fat, and consistent physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease,” he said.

Both experts urged Nigerians to embrace annual health checks, while calling on the government to strengthen primary healthcare, improve referral systems, and integrate preventive measures into community-level interventions.