Abuja: Dr. Oladipupo Fasan, the Head of Cardiology at the National Hospital, Abuja (NHA), has emphasized the importance of teaching Basic Life Support (BLS) skills to young people to reduce preventable deaths from sudden cardiac emergencies. This statement was made during a training program on emergency resuscitation and BLS organized by The City Club Abuja (TCCA) for students of Government Science Technical College, Garki, Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the initiative aims to equip students with survival skills to aid unconscious individuals before medical professionals arrive or victims reach hospitals. Fasan highlighted the increasing cases of cardiovascular disease and sudden deaths, commonly described as ‘fall and die,’ as the motivation behind the program. He noted the potential for students to pass this life-saving knowledge to their peers, families, and communities, thereby expanding the program’s impact beyond the immediate participants.
Fasan also mentioned that the training would be replicated in other schools, as cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of cardiac arrest and sudden collapse. He pointed out that cardiac arrest statistics in Nigeria are underreported, particularly because many incidents occur outside hospitals. Additionally, Nigeria has yet to achieve widespread availability of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in public places.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that an AED is a portable electronic device that automatically diagnoses life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias and treats them through defibrillation. Fasan noted recent studies indicating that nearly 40 percent of Nigerians are hypertensive, a condition linked to various cardiovascular complications.
Mr. Deji Adetuberu, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT) of TCCA, emphasized the training’s goal to address the lack of basic emergency response skills among the public. He explained that the knowledge gained by one student could benefit family members, friends, and the broader community. The club’s philanthropic activities also include supporting schools with books, assisting widows, and other community projects.
Mr. Oluwasanmi Ajayi, President of TCCA, stated that the organization aims to impart knowledge to students rather than focus solely on traditional philanthropic activities. Established in 2019, the club conducts corporate social responsibility activities quarterly and plans to make the training a regular initiative.
Mr. Satsohot Anthony, the Senior Boarding House Master of the school, expressed that the training would enhance the school’s emergency response, particularly in hostels. He mentioned falls from bunk beds, bullying, and respiratory illnesses, such as asthma, as situations where the knowledge could be beneficial. The school plans to demonstrate the skills during assemblies and other gatherings, reaching parents through the Parent-Teacher Association.
Students like Miss Chimamanda Igwe and Elijah Awelewa shared their experiences, noting the training’s impact on their aspirations and confidence in handling emergencies. Awelewa advocated for the introduction of BLS training in all schools to enable students to act promptly during emergencies.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the program was attended by 55 students and 12 members of staff.