By Ebele Egoh
As the world marked World Digestive Health Day on May 29, the Administrator of Anambra State Hospitals, Dr. Frank Ifeanaeme has called on residents to adopt healthy lifestyles and eating habits to reduce the burden of digestive-related diseases.
Dr. Ifeanaeme made the call while commemorating the annual global health observance, which is aimed at creating awareness about the importance of digestive health and the prevention of gastrointestinal disorders.
He noted that a healthy digestive system is essential for overall well-being, stressing that poor dietary habits, unhealthy lifestyles and late diagnosis of medical conditions contribute significantly to digestive ailments such as ulcers, constipation, and gastrointestinal infections.
According to him, residents should embrace balanced diets rich in fruits and vegetables to promote healthy digestion and improve their quality of life.
He recommended the regular consumption of fruits such as mangoes, African star apples (udala), avocados, and pears, as well as vegetables including pumpkin leaves, waterleaf and carrots, which are rich in fibre and essential nutrients.
The hospital administrator advised residents to reduce excessive consumption of processed foods such as bread, cakes, noodles, and alcoholic beverages, noting that such habits can negatively affect digestive health.
Dr. Ifeanaeme encouraged regular medical check-ups, urging individuals experiencing symptoms such as persistent stomach pain, bloating, indigestion, or other digestive discomforts to seek prompt medical attention.
He called on healthcare professionals across the state to intensify public enlightenment campaigns, nutrition counselling and community outreach programmes in various local government areas to educate residents on preventive healthcare practices.
The administrator urged the public to take advantage of these initiatives to gain better knowledge of digestive health and prevent avoidable diseases.
Reaffirming the commitment of the Anambra State Government to improving healthcare delivery, Dr. Ifeanaeme said efforts would continue to focus on health education, disease prevention and access to quality medical services to ensure a healthier population.
World Digestive Health Day is observed annually to promote awareness of digestive diseases and encourage healthy lifestyle choices that support good gastrointestinal health.
Egoh is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
