The recent death of music icon, Onyeka Onwenu, who slumped and died after performing at a birthday party in Lagos on Tuesday, has brought attention to the rising incidence of sudden deaths among Nigerians, particularly prominent and eminent persons.
This phenomenon, known as “slump and die,” has been occurring with alarming frequency, leaving families and friends in shock and grief.
Heart disease is the leading cause of sudden death, often resulting from narrowed blood vessels, heart attacks, or congestive heart failure, which can be triggered by hypertension, stress, and other factors.
Research conducted by Nigerian Teaching hospitals in 2016 identified stroke and heart attack as the major causes of sudden and unexpected deaths (SUD) in the country, accounting for over 93.7% of cases.
The studies found that more males than females, with an average age of 47.3 years, are affected, and blamed the rise in SUD on rural to urban migration, increased salt and fat intake, tobacco use, and sedentary lifestyle.
The World Health Organization identifies cardiovascular disease as the leading cause of death and disability globally, responsible for an estimated 17.5 million deaths each year, with 80% of these deaths occurring in low and middle-income countries.
Dr. Gabriel Omonaiye, quoted by Saturday Sun, attributes hypertension as a major risk factor for sudden death in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of proper blood pressure control to prevent malignant hypertension, which can lead to heart failure, kidney damage, and stroke.
Background heart failure, stress, and specific heart diseases, such as cardiomyopathy and arrhythmias, can also contribute to sudden death, highlighting the need for regular health check-ups and monitoring.
The increasing incidence of slump and die highlights the need for Nigerians to prioritize their health, manage stress, and seek medical attention when necessary, to prevent further tragedies and promote a healthier society.
