World Heart Day: Hospital Pushes "10,000 Steps" Campaign in Lagos

The Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals Cardiovascular Centre has urged Nigerians to prioritise heart health by knowing their health numbers, exercising regularly, and eating healthily.

Dr Ayobami Kuyoro, Managing Director of the hospital, gave this advice during a health walk in Lagos held to commemorate the 2026 World Heart Day.

The World Heart Day is observed annually on September 29 to raise awareness about Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs). According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), CVDs remain the leading cause of death globally, claiming an estimated 19.8 million lives each year. CVDs encompass a range of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and rheumatic heart disease.

"10,000 Steps" Campaign Promotes Daily Activity

Kuyoro explained that the programme, themed "10,000 Steps," was designed to encourage people to walk 10,000 steps daily to improve cardiovascular health. She stressed the importance of walking, noting that it enhances heart health and promotes overall wellbeing, adding that preventing chronic diseases is far more cost-effective than treating them.

"Your health is yours, and it is very important to prioritise your heart health over everything. Walking has been seen to be very, very important for cardiovascular health; it helps with blood pressure and even blood sugar control. We want to encourage everyone participating in the walk not to make it a one-off thing. This is something they should be intentional about every day," she said.

Heart Disease Not Limited to Older Adults

The managing director stressed that being young does not exempt anyone from heart disease, noting that CVDs are increasingly common among younger people as well. "There are people in their 20s and 30s living with hypertension; it has nothing to do with age. That is why it is important for us to know our numbers through regular checks," she said.

Kuyoro urged Nigerians not to assume hypertension affects only older people, emphasising that regular health checks are essential for everyone, regardless of age.

She also disclosed that the hospital is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, noting that the milestone has further strengthened its commitment to promoting general wellbeing. She said the hospital, a centre of excellence for cardiovascular care, would continue providing world-class healthcare and championing heart health across the country.

CEO Reaffirms Commitment to Quality Care

Also speaking, Dr Olubisi Oyeniran, Chief Executive Officer of Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals, noted that CVDs remain among the most prevalent diseases globally and continue to be the leading cause of death worldwide. He urged Nigerians to incorporate walking into their daily routines, noting its importance for maintaining cardiovascular health as people age.

Oyeniran reaffirmed the hospital's commitment to quality healthcare, stating that its services have remained consistent throughout its 40 years of operation. He said the establishment of the cardiovascular centre reflects the hospital's broader vision of providing top-notch cardiovascular care and services across multiple specialties.

The programme also featured exercises, a yoga session, and health talks, among other activities.