As part of the week-long festivities marking the first 100 days of Dr. Mrs. Basilia Nkemdilim Igbokwe’s administration as Rector of Federal Polytechnic Nekede, a comprehensive health talk and medical check-up were held on Wednesday, January 15. This initiative not only celebrated her leadership but also underscored the institution’s commitment to fostering a culture of preventive healthcare among its community.

Dr. (Mrs ) Nene Veronica Ugorji, Chairman Planning Committee of Rector’s 100 day in office/Thanksgiving Service specially thanked the participants in the Health Talk. She emphasized the need for periodic health sensitization in the Federal Polytechnic Nekede Community to arrest narrative of sudden death. Chairman urged participants to maximize the provided opportunity optimally and apply the lessons.

Dr. Ibeaja , the Deputy Rector Admin, representing the Rector, lauded the event as timely, emphasizing the critical role of dietary habits in maintaining overall health. “Monitoring our vital signs is only a part of the equation; what we consume has a direct impact on underlying health conditions,” he noted. In his address, he reinforced the age-old adage that health is wealth, adding that even the affluent crave wellness above material riches.

Nutrition and Hydration: The Foundation of Health

The first presentation, delivered by Dr. Perry Njoku, revolved around the theme of dietary choices as the cornerstone of good health. “If you start early, you will end well,” he began, urging attendees to prioritize balanced meals, starting with a healthy breakfast. He advised reducing red meat consumption in favor of lean protein sources like poultry and fish and incorporating fruits into daily meals for essential vitamins and minerals.

Dr. Njoku highlighted the role of hydration, advocating for routine water intake to combat blood viscosity and prevent hypertension and other cardiovascular issues. “Water is life,” he stressed, “and its regular intake can be lifesaving.”

Cervical Cancer: A Call for Action

Dr. Kizito Nwachukwu, a Fellow of the West African College of Surgeons, shifted the focus to the alarming prevalence of cervical cancer in Nigeria. Citing global statistics, he revealed that the country accounts for a significant percentage of the 300,000 annual deaths from cervical cancer worldwide.

“Cervical cancer is primarily caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which is largely transmitted through sexual intercourse,” Dr. Nwachukwu explained. He outlined preventive measures, including abstinence, vaccination, barrier contraceptives, and regular screenings starting at age 25. He warned of the 10-year latency of the virus before the onset of full-blown cancer, emphasizing that early detection could save countless lives.

Vision Health: The Silent Threat of Glaucoma

Dr. Chinenye Ibeh, an optometrist, educated participants on glaucoma, a group of eye diseases that can cause irreversible vision loss if untreated. She identified open-angle glaucoma as the most common form, accounting for 80% of cases globally.

“Glaucoma is a silent thief of sight, often presenting no symptoms in its early stages,” Dr. Ibeh cautioned. She urged individuals over 40 and those with a family history of the disease to undergo regular eye screenings. Early detection, she emphasized, is crucial for preventing permanent damage.

Stress Management: The Hidden Epidemic

The final speaker, Dr. Ikejiaku, Chief Medical Director of the institution’s Medical Centre, addressed the growing burden of stress-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Highlighting alarming statistics, he noted that the South-East region of Nigeria experiences the highest levels of stress nationwide at 44%, followed by the North-East at 36%.

“Stress is more than a mental health issue—it’s a physiological threat that can trigger inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle diseases like cancer and hypertension,” he explained. Dr. Ikejiaku advocated for holistic stress management strategies, including therapy, exercise, meditation, adequate sleep, and social support networks.

A Healthier Tomorrow

The event concluded with free medical check-ups for participants, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to proactive healthcare. The comprehensive discussions and actionable advice provided a roadmap for attendees to prioritize their health, ensuring that Dr. Igbokwe’s milestone celebration was not only a reflection of leadership but also a call to action for a healthier community.

(Article Contributors: Noble Uchegbu Zach, Bethel Obi, Christy Agim & Francis Ndims)

Let Pictures tell more of the Health Talk event.

Stay safe and remember, health is wealth. Cheers