Image by Damali Conceptuals from Pixabay
Nigeria is currently leading in breast cancer cases within the West African region, which is a concerning statistic. Moreover, the country has the second-highest infant mortality rate, just behind Niger Republic. These alarming facts were brought to light by Prof Noel Wannang, a distinguished pharmacologist and clinical pharmacist, during a seminar held in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom state, by the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN).
According to a report by Leadership News, Prof Wannang, also a Council member of the West African Postgraduate College of Pharmacy, expressed his concerns about Nigeria's health state. He pointed out that despite increased health expenditure since 2001, health outcomes in Nigeria remain subpar, especially when compared to nations with similar or even lower spending. He further highlighted that the current life expectancy in Nigeria stands at 60 years for males and 64 years for females. Moreover, the infant mortality rate is at an alarming 54.74 deaths per 1,000 live births.
The state chairman of PSN, Abasiama Uwatt, emphasised the role of advocacy in enhancing the work of pharmacists. She also announced that Akwa Ibom State would soon establish a drug information centre, a requirement set by the World Health Organisation for developing countries.
