THE BURDEN OF NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES AND EARLY MORTALITY IN NIGERIA: A LIFESTYLE PERSPECTIVE

This study explores the relationship between lifestyle factors and the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Nigeria. The rise of urbanization and globalization has significantly impacted dietary habits, physical activity levels, and substance use, leading to an increasing burden of NCDs such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancers. The research adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from surveys and health records with qualitative insights from interviews and focus groups. This methodology provides a nuanced understanding of the socioeconomic determinants and regional disparities influencing NCD prevalence across Nigeria.The findings highlight a widespread adoption of unhealthy lifestyles, characterized by diets high in salt, sugar, and saturated fats, as well as sedentary behaviors with low levels of physical activity. Tobacco use and harmful alcohol consumption further exacerbate these risk factors, with notable differences observed between the northern and southern regions of the country. Theoretical frameworks, including the Social Determinants of Health theory, Health Belief Model, and Health Promotion and Behavioral Change approaches, are employed to examine the influence of socioeconomic factors, cultural norms, and health behaviors on individual health outcomes related to NCDs.To address these challenges, the study advocates for a collaborative, multisectoral approach involving government, healthcare providers, educational institutions, community organizations, and the private sector. Policy recommendations include targeted health promotion campaigns, improved access to nutritious food, and the integration of comprehensive NCD prevention and management strategies into primary healthcare services. The study underscores the urgent need for evidence-based interventions that are contextually tailored to local needs in order to combat the growing burden of NCDs in Nigeria. By fostering environments that promote healthy lifestyles and implementing effective policies, Nigeria can improve public health outcomes and reduce the prevalence of lifestyle-related risk factors nationwide