By Walter Wilson Nana
Cameroonians have been advised to be careful with their drinking and smoking habits. This is the kernel of a press briefing Dr. Fred Kemah, Cameroonian born but England-based Consultant and Cardiologist granted recently in Buea.
According to the Cardiologist, Cardiovascular diseases are amongst the causes of hospitalisation and mortality in Cameroon. Some of these diseases he mentioned are; hypertension, fatigue, heart failure, stroke and being in a breathless situation. “These health risks constitute some of the causes of numerous deaths in Cameroon,” he said.
Cameroonian-born Cardiologist, Dr Kemah fielding questions from journalists after the press briefing
Dr. Kemah said there are risk factors that lead to Cardiovascular diseases, some of which are; diabetes, high blood pressure, family history and the absence of physical exercises. He noted that it is relevant to know what kills somebody in a family so that the family health history is better understood and subsequently managed.
While noting that chest pain is amongst the symptoms of cardiovascular problems, Kemah said people have to watch out on their lifestyle, do blood pressure and prostate cancer tests at least twice a year.
Dr Fred Kemah (in dark suit) in a family picture with journalists after the press briefing
He prescribed the eating of fish, vegetable, fruits, regular exercises, reduction of alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking as ways of preventing cardiovascular diseases. However, he said palm oil should be eaten with moderation, noting that it is one of the causes of cardiovascular diseases.
