A Consultant Neurologist at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Dr. Nkechi Obianozie, has called for stricter environmental pollution control measures, warning that air and water pollution increase the risk of neurological diseases that affect brain health.
Obianozie made the call on Wednesday in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) to mark the 2026 World Brain Day, observed annually on July 22 to promote awareness and improve access to brain healthcare.
She said environmental pollution had been identified as a major risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases, noting that studies have shown that people living near industrial areas and heavily trafficked highways face a higher risk of developing dementia and other neurological disorders.
The neurologist urged governments at all levels to strengthen environmental regulations and ensure industries comply with approved pollution standards to protect public health.
“Government should enforce minimum distances between industrial facilities and residential communities to reduce exposure to harmful pollutants.
“There is also a need for regular monitoring of air and water quality to ensure contaminant levels remain within internationally accepted safety limits.
“Protecting the environment is essential to safeguarding brain health and improving the wellbeing and productivity of the population,” she said.
Obianozie noted that the theme of the 2026 World Brain Day, “Brain Health for All,” underscores the importance of ensuring equitable access to quality brain healthcare.
She explained that the brain controls movement, memory, thinking, communication and virtually every aspect of human activity, stressing that preventing brain diseases is far more beneficial than treating them after irreversible damage has occurred.
The consultant identified stroke as one of the leading neurological conditions affecting the brain, attributing most cases to uncontrolled hypertension.
According to her, studies indicate that between eight and nine out of every 10 stroke cases in Nigeria and across West Africa are preventable.
“Stroke interrupts the blood supply to parts of the brain, resulting in permanent injury. It can lead to weakness, vision loss, memory impairment and other neurological disabilities depending on the affected area of the brain.
“Uncontrolled hypertension remains the leading preventable risk factor responsible for stroke and long-term brain damage,” she said.
Obianozie advised people living with hypertension to take their prescribed medications consistently instead of discontinuing treatment once they begin to feel better.
She also advocated improved access to healthcare professionals capable of screening, diagnosing and managing neurological conditions in communities across the country.
The neurologist further encouraged Nigerians to adopt healthier lifestyles by eating more green vegetables, reducing the consumption of processed foods and refined sugars, engaging in regular physical exercise and keeping the brain active through reading, learning new skills and participating in intellectually stimulating activities.
She added that maintaining good brain health also requires regular medical check-ups and effective control of blood pressure throughout life.
Source:NAN
