Health Series: Combating Heart Attacks amidst Nigeria's financial crisis:The Importance of CPR Training- Nwaneka Miriam Ike

            Miriam Ike

 By

Nwaneka Miriam Ike

Dear readers,

Welcome to the debut episode of “Health Info with Mims”! Instead of the usual health rumours, we will be delving into actionable steps to safeguard ourselves. Today, we address heart attacks and the critical need for CPR training in Nigeria.

Nigeria is currently experiencing economic hardships, causing financial stress for many. This stress poses a significant risk for heart issues. However, CPR can be a lifesaver, particularly in areas with limited access to medical care.

Stress is a well-known factor in the development of heart disease. When a person is consistently under stress, their body remains in a state of heightened alert, releasing stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Over time, these hormones can lead to an increased heart rate and blood pressure, causing damage to the cardiovascular system. Chronic stress can also result in unhealthy behaviours, including poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking, further elevating the risk of heart attacks.


In Nigeria, the increasing number of heart attacks among stressed individuals serves as a clear reminder of the health impact of the economic crisis. The sudden onset of a heart attack can be fatal, especially in a country where access to immediate medical care is often limited.

Why is Nigeria at Risk?

Nigerians are at risk of experiencing a heart attack due to the following reasons:

  1. Economic Pressure: Rising prices, unemployment, and financial worries are causing a lot of stress.

  2. Stress and Heart Health: Constant stress harms the heart. It can lead to high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, and even heart attacks.

  3. Limited Medical Care: Getting quick medical help isn't easy for everyone in Nigeria.

CPR: Your Life-Saving Skill

CPR is similar to giving your heart an emergency boost to keep blood flowing until doctors arrive. Here’s why it matters:

  1. It doubles Survival Chances. Quick CPR can double or triple a person's chance of surviving a heart attack.

  2. Communities are being empowered. When more people know CPR, more lives can be saved.

  3. It fills the Gap in areas with limited medical care, CPR is a lifesaver.

Initializing CPR

We have just explored the link between Nigeria's financial struggles and the rise in heart-related issues. But fear not! Even amidst stress, there's a powerful tool in your arsenal: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). Imagine this – a lifesaving technique you can master to potentially save someone's life in the critical minutes before medical help arrives. 

CPR 101: Your Cheat Sheet to Becoming a Hero

Picture this: you encounter someone unresponsive, not breathing, and your heart races with panic. Here's how CPR can turn the tide:

  1. Shake and Shout:  Gently nudge the person and ask loudly, "Are you okay?". Every second counts, so if there's no response, call emergency services immediately. Don't hesitate – their life may depend on it!

  2. Be a Hero, Not a Bystander:  Dial emergency services or delegate the call. Remember, the faster help arrives, the better the outcome. 

  3. Open the Airways:  Think of clearing a path for air to flow. Tilt the person's head back slightly and lift their chin.

  4. See, Listen, Feel:  Look for any sign of breathing for about 10 seconds. No chest rise, no movement? Time for CPR!

  5. Push Hard, Push Fast: Become a temporary heart for the person. Place the heel of your hand in the centre of their chest, interlock your fingers, and push down hard and fast – about 2 inches deep, at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Imagine you're giving their heart a powerful massage to keep blood flowing.

  6. Breathe Life Back In:  After 30 compressions, it's time for rescue breaths. Pinch the person's nose closed, seal your mouth over theirs, and give two breaths to make their chest rise. If you're uncomfortable with mouth-to-mouth, focus on continuous chest compressions – they're still incredibly effective!

  7. Be the Relentless Hero:  Repeat cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until help arrives or the person shows signs of life. Don't give up – your actions can make all the difference!

Remember: CPR is a skill anyone can learn. It empowers you to act during emergencies and potentially save a life. With rising stress levels in Nigeria, mastering CPR becomes even more crucial. 

Let's break the cycle of fear and equip ourselves with this lifesaving knowledge. In the next episode of Health Info with Mims, we'll explore resources and opportunities to learn CPR in your community. Stay tuned, and remember, you have the power to be a hero!

How Can We Promote CPR?

Community Training: Let's organize CPR classes in neighbourhoods, marketplaces, and towns.

Workplace Training: Companies, train staff to handle emergencies.

Media Power: TV, radio, and social media should spread the CPR message far and wide.

Let's Make a Difference!

By learning and teaching CPR, we can build a healthier Nigeria. It's not just about surviving heart attacks; it's about creating a caring community ready to help.

Keywords: CPR training, Nigeria, heart attacks, financial crisis, health awareness, community health 

Watch out for the link on how to perform CPR and…

Stay tuned for more health tips! Remember, your health matters.

Nwanneka Miriam Ike is a Public health Specialist, Ibadan, Oyo State.


 






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