First-Ever Female Chairperson of SOFPON FCT-Keffi Champions NCD Prevention on Arise TV’s Newsnight
On a special edition of Newsnight, Arise TV featured Dr. Ngozi Mmamelu, the newly elected and first-ever female Chairperson of the Society of Family Physicians of Nigeria (SOFPON) FCT-Keffi chapter. During the in-depth interview, Dr. Mmamelu shed light on the rising epidemic of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and their impact on public health in Nigeria, offering insights on prevention strategies grounded in addressing modifiable risk factors.
Understanding NCDs
Dr. Ngozi Mmamelu began by explaining that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are chronic diseases not spread through infection. They include conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, and cancers. She emphasized that NCDs are now a leading cause of death worldwide, including in Nigeria, accounting for a significant burden on healthcare systems.
NCDs are largely lifestyle-related diseases, often resulting from prolonged exposure to risk factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption, she explained.
Modifiable Risk Factors and Prevention
Dr. Mmamelu provided an outline of modifiable risk factors—behaviors or exposures that individuals can change to reduce their risk of developing NCDs:
1. Unhealthy Diet: She advocated for a balanced diet which should be rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while minimizing processed foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats.
2. Physical Inactivity: Encouraging regular exercise. (Engaging in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily can drastically reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes.)
3. Tobacco Use: Dr. Mmamelu called for stronger policies to discourage smoking and other forms of tobacco use, citing its direct link to cancers and respiratory diseases.
4. Excessive Alcohol Consumption: She urged moderation. (Excessive alcohol contributes to liver disease, high blood pressure, and certain cancers.)
She stressed the importance of early detection and routine health check-ups, highlighting that many NCDs progress silently without noticeable symptoms until complications arise.
A Call to Action
Dr. Mmamelu concluded with a strong call to action, urging individuals and healthcare practitioners to play their part in mitigating the NCD epidemic. “As physicians, we must intensify capacity building and community outreach programs to educate the public. For individuals, small changes in lifestyle today can lead to big health dividends tomorrow.
Her appointment as the first female leader of the SOFPON FCT-Keffi chapter is being celebrated as a milestone for women in leadership within the medical community.
Dr.Ngozi Mmamelu ’s appearance on Newsnight served as both a wake-up call and a guide, urging Nigerians to take charge of their health through informed choices and preventive care.
About SOFPON
The Society of Family Physicians of Nigeria (SOFPON) is a professional body committed to improving family medicine and promoting health at the primary care level. Under Dr. Ngozi Mmamelu ’s leadership, the FCT-Keffi chapter aims to expand its advocacy and educational efforts, particularly around NCD prevention and management.
—
Editor’s Note: For more information on NCD prevention, consult a certified family physician or visit a primary healthcare facility.