Why Sudden Collapses and Deaths Are Raising Health Concerns in Nigeria

Reports of Nigerians collapsing and dying suddenly in public places, workplaces, campuses and sporting activities have raised fresh concern. Recent cases include a woman near Ajah Bridge in Lagos, a footballer in Jos, students in Ogun and Osun, a lecturer in Kogi, and a police officer in Ebonyi. Medical experts say sudden adult deaths are rarely without an underlying cause. Common triggers include undiagnosed hypertension, heart disease, dangerous irregular heart rhythms, stroke, blood clots in the lungs, diabetes complications, seizures, drug misuse and severe infections. Experts warn that many people who suffer sudden cardiac arrest may not know they have high blood pressure or other cardiovascular risks. They advise regular checks for blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol, especially for people with a family history of early heart disease or sudden death. Warning signs such as chest pain, persistent palpitations, unexplained fainting, severe breathlessness, weakness on one side of the body and confusion should be treated as medical emergencies. Improving emergency response services, CPR training and access to defibrillators could also help prevent avoidable deaths.

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