MR P, HMO URGE NIGERIANS TO EXERCISE, PRIORITISE HEART HEALTH

Nigerian musician Peter Okoye, popularly known as Mr P, Anchor HMO and Power Oil have urged Nigerians to make regular exercise and healthy living part of their daily routines to protect their heart health.

They gave the advice on Thursday in Lagos during the 10th edition of the Power Oil Walk-Heart On event held as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.

The Assistant General Manager of Anchor HMO, Dr Sandra Nnamani, said heart health should not only be considered during exercise events or when symptoms appear, stressing that the heart requires consistent care.

She identified high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels, diabetes, smoking, physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, obesity and excessive alcohol consumption as major cardiovascular risk factors.

Nnamani encouraged Nigerians to engage in activities such as brisk walking, dancing, cycling, swimming, jogging and climbing stairs, while reducing the amount of time spent sitting.

She recommended that adults aim for 150 to 300 minutes of moderate physical activity each week or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous activity, alongside muscle-strengthening exercises on at least two days weekly.

She also advised Nigerians to eat more vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains, nuts and seeds, while limiting excessive salt, added sugars and unhealthy fats.

Nnamani urged people to regularly check their blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, weight and waist circumference, noting that some cardiovascular risk factors may exist without obvious symptoms.

She also warned people not to ignore symptoms such as chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, cold sweat, sudden dizziness, weakness or discomfort spreading to the arm, back, neck or jaw, advising those experiencing such symptoms to seek urgent medical attention.

Mr P encouraged Nigerians to embrace daily walks and other physical activities as part of efforts to maintain a healthy heart.

The event also featured health screenings for thousands of participants in Lagos, including blood pressure and blood sugar checks, to promote early detection of cardiovascular risk factors.