In response to the growing incidence of sudden deaths in society, the Enugu State Government, in partnership with the College of Medicine, Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), organized a high level public lecture titled "Sudden Death: Case Presentation and Post Event Management". The event, held on Monday at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, aimed to educate the public on the causes, prevention, and emergency response strategies associated with sudden death.
Delivering the keynote address, Rt. Rev. Prof. Samuel Ike, a Consultant Physician, Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine, and Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese, described sudden cardiac death as a natural and unexpected death caused by cardiac related issues, often occurring within one hour of the onset of symptoms. He highlighted key symptoms such as: Chest pain, Difficulty in breathing, Irregular heartbeat, Pain in the left arm or chest
According to Prof. Ike, many of these deaths could be prevented with early detection and timely medical intervention. He identified several lifestyle-related risk factors, including smoking, alcohol use, drug abuse, obesity, lack of exercise, and unhealthy dietary habits. He further criticized the modern sedentary lifestyle, especially among children, who are increasingly inactive due to prolonged screen time and poor nutrition.
Prof. Ike referenced findings from autopsy records at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) between 2007 and 2018, which showed that 13.6% of all recorded deaths were sudden, and only 8 of 29 cases made it to the hospital. He stressed that 80% of sudden deaths occur at home, and 40% go unwitnessed.
He emphasized the importance of public health education, access to emergency care, and training in Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). He also called for systematic reforms, better hospital equipment, and the establishment of emergency hotlines.
Also speaking at the event, Prof. Robsam Ohayi, a Professor of Anatomical Pathology and Forensic Medicine, advocated for the routine conduct of autopsies and toxicology tests to determine causes of sudden death. He noted the absence of a toxicology laboratory in Enugu and appealed to the government for its establishment.
Representing Governor Peter Mbah, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. George Ugwu, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to improving healthcare access across the state. He noted that the government is currently constructing 260 primary healthcare centers across all political wards and developing a 300-bed international hospital to improve healthcare delivery and medical education.
“Enugu is poised to serve as a model for other states in health sector development,” Dr. Ugwu said, emphasizing Governor Mbah’s vision to position Enugu as a leader in healthcare infrastructure and emergency response.
A CPR demonstration was conducted by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Yomi Jaiye, who announced that CPR training would be extended to all primary healthcare centers, markets, and grassroots communities. He confirmed that such training would be conducted twice annually and supported by external experts from Lagos.
In his remarks, Prof. Aloysius Okolie, Vice Chancellor of ESUT, underscored the broader causes of sudden death, including poverty and mental health challenges. He reiterated the university’s support for public health education and the importance of maintaining an academic calendar that supports such initiatives.
Earlier in his welcome address, Prof. Uchenna Ekwochi, Provost of the College of Medicine, noted the relevance of the topic, citing recent losses within the institution due to sudden deaths. He emphasized the college’s preparedness to equip the public with the knowledge needed to handle such emergencies.
Speaking with the press, Dr. Sunday Okafor, Chairman of the Enugu State Chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), commended the initiative and highlighted recent reforms in the state's healthcare system. He confirmed that the Medical Emergency Committee had been reconstituted by Governor Mbah to ensure access to the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) for emergency care and payment of medical personnel.
The well attended event marks a significant step in the state’s efforts to promote preventive healthcare and strengthen its emergency response capacity.
