The Society of Lifestyle Medicine of Nigeria (SOLONg) is calling for the empowerment of individuals with the knowledge and tools to combat stress and chronic diseases through evidence-based lifestyle interventions. In commemoration of the 2024 Lifestyle Medicine Week, President Moyosore Makinde emphasized the importance of healthy behaviors and the impact lifestyle choices have on chronic diseases.
With the theme “Beat STRESS with D.R.E.A.M.S.,” Lifestyle Medicine Week aims to raise awareness about the six pillars of Lifestyle Medicine in preventing, treating, and sometimes reversing chronic conditions such as heart diseases, type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypercholesterolemia, and certain cancers. Stress, described as a global challenge by Mrs. Makinde, was highlighted as a significant factor in the development and perpetuation of chronic diseases.
According to the World Health Organization, 190 million people worldwide experienced significantly higher levels of stress in 2020, with a high prevalence of work-related stress among the employee workforce in Nigeria. Chronic stress impacts the body through hormonal changes, immune system dysregulation, metabolic disturbances, and negative behavioral patterns, all contributing to the development and progression of chronic diseases.
Dr. Mimi Osamwonyi, the General Secretary of SOLONg, emphasized the importance of effective stress management in preventing and mitigating the impact of chronic conditions. The D.R.E.A.M.S approach, which stands for Diet and Healthy Nutrition, Relationships, Exercise, Avoidance of Psychoactive or Toxic Substances, Mental Wellbeing and Effective Stress Management, and Sleep, was advocated as a way to address stress and promote overall health.
Global Lifestyle Medicine Week, marked in over 160 countries, calls for unified efforts by individuals, stakeholders, and governments to confront chronic diseases as a critical public health issue. By embracing the principles of Lifestyle Medicine and addressing the multifaceted nature of stress, a healthier future can be paved for all.
In conclusion, the advocacy for lifestyle interventions to combat stress and chronic diseases is crucial in today’s fast-paced world. Empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools to make healthy choices can have a profound impact on their overall well-being. As the world celebrates Lifestyle Medicine Week, the call to “Beat STRESS with D.R.E.A.M.S.” serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing stress and promoting a healthy lifestyle for a better future.