HEALTH EXPERT SOUNDS ALARM ON LACK OF SLEEP, MALARIA AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE.

By: Sulayman Sherif Olamilekan 

In an exclusive interview with Ilorin News Network On Friday, January 10, 2025, Dr. Obalowu Ismail Aberi, a consultant, family physician, and Deputy CMAC at Kwara State University Teaching Hospital, highlighted "lack of sleep, malaria, and substance abuse" as pressing health issues affecting various age groups.

Dr. Aberi emphasized the importance of adequate sleep, stressing that 6-8 hours of sleep per night is crucial for physical and mental well-being. 

He said, “Good sleep should refresh body and mind and to get that, we have to have a deep sleep. And to have a deep sleep, the best advice is to keep the lights off. This is because when light gets to our iris, it’ll not make us have a deep sleep”

He also stated that taking stimulants like Coffee, Kolanut, and inconsistent sleeping schedules mostly up to 24 hours can lead to sleep debt which can cause slump or shutting down. 

He explained further by saying "inadequate sleep can lead to energy drain or slump. Also, sleeping during the day instead of night sleep is not equivalent to night sleep. We shouldn't ignore sleeping at night because we had a few hours sleep during the day.” he advised.

The expert warned that poor sleep habits can lead to a range of issues, including substance abuse, high blood pressure, headaches, and depression.

According to Dr. Aberi, malaria remains the most common disease among children in 2024. 

Among adolescents, substance abuse and experimentation with harmful substances like tramadol, codeine, and marijuana are growing concerns.

For adults, Dr. Aberi noted that hypertension and cardiovascular problems are prevalent, while the elderly are prone to complications from high blood pressure, diabetes, and malaria.

Dr. Aberi's warnings serve as a wake-up call for individuals, families, and communities to prioritize healthy habits and seek medical attention when necessary.

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CHIEF EDITOR 

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