25-30% of Cameroonians are affected by CVD

For several years, cardiologists have worried over the increase in the number of people suffering from hypertension, coronary artery disease, stroke. Surprisingly, cardiovascular diseases continue to increase in the country.

According Euloge Yagnigni, doctor at the central hospital of Yaoundé, 25-30% suffer from this disease. "It is true that the rate of the CVD-related deaths is hardly estimable. However, from some studies we can say that the death rate of patients hospitalized for cardiovascular diseases is 40% ", reveals the doctor.

Cardiologist at Hôpital Erasme Université libre de Bruxelles and president of the Cameroonian heart Foundation, Daniel Lemogoun is also concerned over the mortality rate from eclampsia (hypertension of pregnancy), responsible for many deaths of pregnant women in the region of the far North.

According to him, smoking, alcoholism, diabetes, obesity are among other factors that promote cardiovascular disease. "Cameroonians are increasingly getting fat, especially women and 60% are affected by obesity," Cardiovascular diseases are perfectly avoidable. However, we need to make early detection and adopt a healthy lifestyle, hygiene, eating balanced diet, and exercise, the doctor advised.

To raise awareness, an awareness campaign organized by the Cameroonian's Heart Foundation and the Ministry of public health will be held from 21 to 30 September in Yaoundé, Douala and the villages. This 9th edition of national heart week intervenes in the world day of heart celebrated each September 29.

"There will be sessions of free screening for the public, particularly women and young people. "Given the rate of this health issue is increasing and leading to sudden deaths, a national programme for the prevention of sudden death - will be launched. The public will be trained on how to save a victim in a case of a sudden attack", said François Ngoumou, Member of the Foundation, who also announced sessions for capacity building for doctors led by Belgian experts.