The Enugu State Commissioner for Health, Prof. George Ugwu, has dismissed fears of a surge in kidney and cardiovascular diseases in the state, saying the apparent increase in reported cases is largely due to greater public awareness, improved access to health information and more residents undergoing medical tests.
Recently, a social media philanthropist, Okwulora, posted a video showing a large number of patients allegedly suffering from kidney disease at a health facility and appealed for assistance.
The video sparked fear and anxiety among residents, particularly amid concerns over the prevalence of foods believed to contribute to such health challenges, especially in the South-East region.
Speaking to journalists in Enugu, Ugwu explained that many cases that would previously have gone undetected are now being identified because residents are becoming more health-conscious and seeking medical examinations.
He, however, warned that unhealthy lifestyles remain major drivers of kidney and cardiovascular diseases, citing poor nutrition, obesity, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption and indiscriminate use of medicines as significant risk factors.
The commissioner urged residents to reduce their intake of sugary, salty, oily and highly processed foods, while encouraging them to eat more locally produced meals, which he described as healthier and more nutritious than many packaged alternatives.
He lamented the growing perception that expensive processed foods are symbols of affluence, warning that such eating habits could contribute to obesity and other health complications.
Ugwu particularly advised people aged 40 and above to monitor their calorie intake, maintain a healthy weight and avoid excessive eating, which he said could increase with improved financial comfort.
He also expressed concern about the dietary habits of young people, especially students who rely heavily on noodles and other convenience foods, failing to balance their meals with vegetables and protein.
According to him, poor dietary choices are often driven more by ignorance than by poverty, as some people spend money on snacks and junk food rather than healthier, more affordable alternatives.
The commissioner stressed the importance of regular exercise in preventing lifestyle-related diseases and warned against self-medication, particularly the abuse of painkillers, which he said could damage the kidneys.
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He advised residents to obtain medicines only from credible sources and use them strictly as prescribed by qualified medical professionals.
On concerns about fake orthodox medicines and the growing use of herbal remedies, Ugwu said the two should not be viewed as alternatives.
He disclosed that the Enugu State Government was strengthening the regulation of health facilities and medical products while working towards sourcing medical supplies directly from manufacturers to improve the quality and safety of medicines.
The commissioner noted that although regulation remained a challenge, the Ministry of Health was intensifying enforcement, while the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) continued efforts to combat counterfeit drugs through measures such as product verification codes.
He cautioned that, unlike approved pharmaceutical products, which undergo extensive research and clinical testing, many herbal preparations lack established dosage standards and sufficient scientific evidence on their safety and effectiveness.
Ugwu added that while poverty could limit access to treatment, ignorance remained a bigger obstacle, urging residents to consult qualified medical practitioners before taking medications or undergoing unnecessary laboratory tests.
