A leading cardiologist at the National Hospital, Abuja, Dr Oladipupo Fasan, has warned that undetected heart conditions and poorly managed cardiovascular risk factors could contribute to sudden deaths among Nigerians.
Fasan, who heads the hospital’s Cardiology Department, urged Nigerians to take preventive healthcare seriously by checking their blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels regularly.
Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, the specialist said early detection and proper management of cardiovascular diseases could help prevent life-threatening complications.
Cardiologist Explains Why People Collapse and Die Suddenly
According to Fasan, sudden death can result from several medical conditions, although diseases affecting the heart and blood vessels are particularly important causes.
He identified heart attacks, strokes, heart failure and certain disorders of the cardiovascular system as serious health problems that could lead to unexpected deaths.
The cardiologist explained that some individuals may have underlying heart conditions without experiencing obvious symptoms before a medical emergency occurs.
He stressed that identifying cardiovascular risk factors early could help people receive appropriate treatment and reduce their chances of developing severe complications.
Heart Disease Remains a Major Global Health Threat
Cardiovascular diseases continue to account for a substantial proportion of deaths worldwide.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 19.8 million people died from cardiovascular diseases in 2022, representing approximately 32 per cent of global deaths.
Heart attacks and strokes accounted for about 85 per cent of cardiovascular disease deaths, while more than three-quarters occurred in low- and middle-income countries.
The figures highlight the importance of preventive healthcare, particularly in countries where access to early diagnosis and specialised treatment remains challenging.
Millions of Nigerians Living With High Blood Pressure
Fasan identified hypertension as one of the most significant cardiovascular risk factors affecting Nigerians.
He also listed diabetes and high cholesterol as conditions that could increase the likelihood of heart disease and related complications.
WHO’s 2025 Global Report on Hypertension estimated that approximately 22 million Nigerian adults aged 30 to 79 were living with hypertension in 2024.
That figure represents about 32 per cent of adults within the specified age group.
The cardiologist expressed concern that cardiovascular diseases were becoming increasingly prominent in Nigeria as unhealthy diets, physical inactivity and obesity contributed to worsening health risks.
He noted that Nigeria was facing a growing burden of non-communicable diseases alongside longstanding infectious disease challenges.
Unhealthy Lifestyles Increase Cardiovascular Risks
Fasan linked the growing concern over cardiovascular diseases to changes in everyday habits.
He identified inadequate physical activity, poor dietary choices, excessive weight gain and other lifestyle-related factors as contributors to cardiovascular problems.
According to him, people who fail to monitor conditions such as hypertension and diabetes may remain unaware of their health risks until complications develop.
He encouraged Nigerians to adopt healthier routines while seeking medical advice when necessary.
Why Medical Checks Matter Before Strenuous Exercise
Although regular exercise is widely recognised as beneficial to heart health, Fasan cautioned against suddenly engaging in demanding physical activities without considering existing medical conditions.
He explained that some individuals have inherited or congenital heart disorders that may remain undetected for years.
Among the conditions he mentioned were hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a disease involving abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, and certain channelopathies, which can interfere with the heart’s electrical activity.
In susceptible individuals, intense physical exertion may trigger dangerous heart rhythm disturbances.
Fasan therefore advised people with possible heart problems or significant cardiovascular risk factors to seek medical assessment before undertaking strenuous exercise.
Cardiologist Recommends Gradual Exercise Routine
The specialist emphasised that exercise remains an important part of maintaining good health.
He explained that regular physical activity can support weight management, improve circulation and help control blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.
For people beginning an exercise programme, he recommended starting with manageable activities and increasing intensity gradually as their fitness improves.
He also noted that aerobic exercise could be combined with resistance training, including appropriate weightlifting, to improve overall health.
However, he advised individuals with existing medical conditions to obtain guidance on the type and intensity of exercise suitable for them.
Low Blood Pressure Does Not Always Mean Illness
Fasan also addressed concerns about low blood pressure, explaining that a relatively low reading does not automatically indicate a medical emergency.
He said some healthy individuals naturally have lower blood pressure than others without experiencing dizziness, weakness or other symptoms.
According to the cardiologist, medical professionals consider a person’s symptoms, circulation and general health when determining whether low blood pressure requires treatment.
He explained that a reading such as 90/50 mmHg may be normal for some individuals, depending on their usual blood pressure and clinical condition.
However, a sudden fall in blood pressure accompanied by symptoms could indicate a serious underlying problem.
When Low Blood Pressure Becomes Dangerous
Fasan identified heart attacks and severe fluid loss as examples of medical conditions that could cause dangerously low blood pressure.
He explained that a heart attack may weaken the heart’s pumping ability, reducing blood circulation to vital organs.
Similarly, repeated vomiting or diarrhoea can lead to substantial dehydration and a fall in blood pressure.
Without prompt treatment, severe circulatory problems can progress to shock, a life-threatening condition requiring emergency medical attention.
The cardiologist stressed that blood pressure readings should always be interpreted alongside a patient’s symptoms and overall medical condition.
Nigerians Urged to Prioritise Preventive Healthcare
Fasan called for greater awareness of cardiovascular diseases and the importance of routine health assessments.
His advice highlights the need for Nigerians to understand their personal risk factors, maintain healthy lifestyles and seek appropriate treatment for conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.
Regular screening, early diagnosis and effective management of cardiovascular diseases can help reduce preventable complications and improve long-term health outcomes.
Health experts also advise that anyone experiencing severe chest pain, sudden breathlessness, fainting or signs of stroke should seek emergency medical care rather than waiting for a routine check-up.
