NEWS
2024 WORLD BRAIN DAY MEDIA CHAT; BRAIN HEALTH AND PREVENTION.
To commemorate the 2024 World Brain Day, Brain and Spine Foundation Africa organized a media chat on July 22, 2024, at Novare Centre Hall, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja. In attendance were notable figures such as the Director General of the Senior Citizen Center, Dr. Emem Omokaro; Retired General A. Ajemba; Dr. Mbamalu Chibuike; Pharmacist Obodozie Chris, Executive Director of Afriemergencies; and Gideon Alex, President of Neuroscience Nigeria. Media houses represented included Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), Africa Independent Television (AIT), TVC Nigeria, Arise TV, Vanguard, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), The Guardian, SUN, and The Nations Newspaper. Online contributors included Professor Sam Ohaegbulam, Chief Neurosurgeon at Memfys Neurosurgery, and Dr. Douglas Okor, Consultant Neurosurgeon.
The Executive Director of Brain and Spine Foundation Africa, Engineer Chika Okwuolisa, emphasized that World Brain Day is dedicated to promoting awareness and education about neurological conditions. This year, the focus is on brain health and the prevention of neurological disorders. Okwuolisa stressed that beyond raising awareness, brain health should be taken seriously. She highlighted that there are more than 600 neurological disorders, which are significant contributors to disabilities such as stroke, dementia, and head injuries. Therefore, relevant authorities must commit to addressing these health issues. She underscored that the brain, an extraordinary organ controlling every aspect of our lives, often lacks the attention it deserves in medical discussions.
“Our brains are at the core of who we are—our thoughts, memories, emotions, and actions all originate here. Therefore, protecting and nurturing brain health is not just a medical priority but a fundamental aspect of our overall well-being,” Okwuolisa stated. She concluded by emphasizing that through collective efforts, a world where brain health is prioritized and preventable brain disorders are eradicated can be achieved.
Dr. Mbamalu Chibuike, a physiotherapist, pointed out that unmanaged stress, family history of stroke, and stressful work environments are factors contributing to brain health issues. He noted that research indicates brain regeneration is possible with adequate treatment, though the availability of resources for such treatment is often lacking compared to developed parts of the world.
Retired General A. Ajemba, a cardiologist and founder of Life Ajemba Foundation, emphasized the importance of not ignoring brain health and the prevention of brain health challenges. He highlighted that preventing brain health issues involves considering other areas of the body, including the heart. Ajemba stressed the need for neurological centers distinct from neuropsychiatric centers to address a wide range of illnesses and traumatic injuries in all six geopolitical zones.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Emem Omokaro, Director General of the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC), mentioned that they have developed the National Occupational Standard for training and certifying caregivers. The first batch of training providers, comprising 22 states and federal university teaching hospitals, has been selected. This initiative aims to certify and build a workforce to care for older persons. She added that the NSCC is on the verge of organizing a capacity enhancement program for stakeholders in the field of healthy aging to combat stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination against older persons. She pledged to partner with the foundation henceforth since their objectives aligned.
World Brain Day: Stakeholders Advocate For Neurological, Trauma Centres Nationwide
