We attended this year’s edition of the Nigerian Cardiac Society Conference 2023 which brought together renowned Cardiologists from across the country to discuss trends and insights in Cardiology and Cardiovascular Disease Management. If you missed the Conference, please visit 3B, Ligali Ayorinde Close, Victoria Island, to speak to us about the expansive Cardiac and advanced diagnostic service offerings available at Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Over the weekend, we hosted the maiden edition of the Iwosan Football Tournament, an event designed to foster cohesion and friendly competition amongst staff across all our facilities. This was an opportunity for us to relax, play, and spend quality time together. After a series of thrilling games which featured Team Ikoyi, Team Ikeja, Team V/I, and Team Iwosan, Team Ikeja emerged victorious and secured the prestigious CEO’s Cup. In a field like ours, every minute is treasured, and we are deeply grateful and appreciative of the time spent with our team. We look forward to hosting the next edition and to perhaps invite our colleagues from other hospitals to join us. We will look after you.

In the battle against the mounting burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Nigeria, a comprehensive approach is imperative. Expanding access to cardiology care throughout the country is a key solution. This entails establishing more cardiology centers staffed with proficient physicians and support teams, while ensuring accessibility for all through HMOs and national insurance. However, it’s not merely a matter of increasing centers or stemming the brain drain; this response necessitates the united efforts and support of diverse stakeholders at clinical, managerial, and governmental levels. Effective management of heart disease encompasses various aspects, including prevention, early detection, active treatment, palliative care, and long-term symptom control through cardiac rehabilitation. With the establishment of new secondary/tertiary centers, the emphasis shifts to ensuring high-quality care delivery. This entails hospitals providing services that are safe, timely, patient-centered, efficient, and equitable. Cardiology care in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa draws upon a range of clinical guidelines to ensure quality and evidence-based practice. While international guidelines, such as those provided by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association and the European Society of Cardiology, are commonly referenced, their applicability to African or Nigerian patients may be limited. These guidelines are often based on data primarily obtained from populations outside the region, which may differ significantly in genetic makeup, lifestyle factors, and access to healthcare resources. Therefore, there is a growing recognition of the need for locally generated data and guidelines that are specifically validated in African and Nigerian populations. The World Health Organization offers guidelines tailored to the global health context, addressing prevention and management strategies in resource-limited settings. Locally adapted guidelines, developed by organizations like the Nigerian Cardiac Society and National Medical Associations, account for specific healthcare challenges in Nigeria and, individual countries within Sub-Saharan Africa may have their own national or regional guidelines. Healthcare professionals in the region integrate these guidelines with clinical judgment to deliver optimal cardiology care. Regrettably, the Nigerian healthcare system often falls short of meeting these standards. A 2019 study by the Department of Medicine at the University of Ibadan aimed to assess the quality of cardiology care in a public Nigerian tertiary hospital. The study involved 28 healthcare professionals, including physicians and allied health professionals from the University College Hospital Ibadan. The findings revealed that the quality of care for cardiac patients in the hospital calls for urgent attention. About two-thirds of the participants reported that treatment guidelines were not followed or adequately monitored within the hospital. As a result, patients were not receiving consistent care, with some not being treated according to the recommended guidelines. These findings suggest similar issues may exist in other parts of the country, considering that this hospital is widely regarded as one of the best in the country. The standard of care can be influenced by the training, or lack thereof, provided to healthcare professionals. In this particular hospital, many healthcare professionals lack specialized knowledge and expertise in cardiac care. Although they desire more training, they are responsible for seeking out such opportunities independently. Unfortunately, management does not support these efforts, as staff members are not given time off to pursue additional training. Moreover, the quality of care is affected by a shortage of essential resources, including ECG machines (Resting and Stress), Echocardiography machines, pulse oximeters, ambulatory monitoring equipment, stethoscopes, resuscitation drugs, and pulmonary function test machines, all of which are crucial for effective cardiac care. Furthermore, public hospitals, in particular, face challenges with basic amenities such as electricity and water, which are necessary for running catheterization laboratories, operating theaters, and maintaining proper storage conditions for medications and equipment. These issues extend to the provision of support for general clinics on a daily basis. While the construction of new secondary or tertiary centers would be advantageous in addressing the increasing burden, it is crucial that these facilities are adequately equipped and staffed with the necessary teams, and that they implement effective policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure efficient governance and daily operations. Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals is a renowned healthcare institution in Nigeria, known for providing high-quality medical services across various specialties. With a focus on patient-centered care, Lagoon Hospitals has established a strong reputation for its commitment to excellence in healthcare delivery. Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals recently opened a 27-bed multi-specialist hospital and center of excellence for Cardiology Care in Lagos, Nigeria. The facility aims to broaden access to cardiology care while improving the quality of patient care by using international treatment guidelines and standards. This includes implementing guidelines from the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC), which provide up-to-date, evidence-based knowledge on preventing, diagnosing, and managing cardiovascular diseases. By following these guidelines, the hospital can operate at a high standard, offer patients the best care, and align with international counterparts. In line with their commitment to enhancing local capabilities, Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals actively supports research initiatives focused on generating data and guidelines specifically tailored to the Nigerian population. In doing so, Iwosan aims to address the limitations of relying solely on international guidelines. This approach not only ensures that healthcare practices align with the unique needs of Nigerian patients but also contributes to the advancement of medical knowledge and the development of more targeted and effective treatments. Through this emphasis on local capabilities and innovation, Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals plays a vital role in improving the quality and relevance of cardiology care in Nigeria. Teaching and training are key goals at Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals, with accreditation already in place for training medical doctors, nurses, radiographers, and other allied health professionals. This focus on training aims to reduce brain drain and ensure a skilled workforce within Nigeria’s healthcare system. The newly built Catheterization Laboratory (Cath Lab) at Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals expands the limited number of such facilities in Nigeria. With only five functional Cath Labs in Lagos State and six outside Lagos, this addition is significant. The facility also features an essential diagnostic tool, an MRI device. With these advanced resources, state-of-the-art interventions, surgeries and diagnostic procedures are

We’re pleased to announce the commencement of Diagnostic and Interventional cardiac cases as well as Peripheral Vascular cases at our Catheterization Laboratory (CathLab). Some of the notable procedures we have conducted include Coronary Angiogram (Left heart catheterization & Left Ventriculogram), Peripheral Angiogram (Abdominal Aortogram & Selective unilateral right lower extremity angiogram) and Percutaneous Coronary Intervention. Our team of experts are on standby to attend to all complex and routine cases, and these services can be booked either via your HMO or directly at Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals Victoria Island. Kindly call 0806 575 7205 to get started. We will look after you.

Join us on next Tuesday, 20th of June, as we bring the message of Wellness to Gaia Africa Club; a private business club for women decision makers in Africa. Register to attend this event for an opportunity to listen to our Super Specialist, Dr Banji Awosika, and Dr. Omotayo Ayeni, Consultant & HOD Obstetrics & Gynaecology, speak about common issues centered around Menopause and women’s health. Kindly click here to reserve a seat. We will look after you.

We are glad to have partnered with Institute of Directors (IoD) Nigeria on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of their recently concluded health and fitness program. As the official health partner, we supported the event with a standby ambulance for the duration of the fitness walk, vitals check for attendees, and an interactive discourse on The 6 Pillars of Wellness delivered by our Consultant Nephrologist and Wellness Expert, Dr Banji Awosika. Here’s to many more celebrations! We will look after you.

Our upcoming medical forum on Preterm Labour and Preterm Babies will be anchored by Dr. Omotayo Ayeni – Consultant & HOD Obstetrics and Gynaecology, as well as Dr. Nkoyo Uwe, Consultant Paediatrician. We invite medical professionals to attend for an opportunity to gain insights on the care and management of pretern neonates. Attendees will also benefit from networking with thought leaders in the healthcare industry, and receive CME 5 points for participating. Venue: Radisson Hotel, IkejaDate: 23rd of May, 2023Time: 11am – 2pm. Attendance is free, but we ask that you kindly contact +234 703 052 7269 & +234 803 318 4882 to reserve a seat. See you soon!

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are on the rise in Nigeria, with heart failure, cardiomyopathies, rheumatic heart disease, and coronary artery disease being the most prevalent. According to the President of the Nigerian Cardiac Society, about a third of Nigerian adults are living with high blood pressure, and this can go up to 40% in some parts of the country. Hypertension is the main risk factor for CVD, and unfortunately, one-third of hypertensive people in the country are not receiving any treatment, and another third do not have their blood pressure under control. The situation is no different on the rest of the continent. Cardiovascular diseases in sub-Saharan Africa are a ticking time bomb that urgently needs attention. With the world’s highest prevalence of rheumatic heart disease (RHD), affecting 15-20 out of 1000 people, children and adolescents are the most vulnerable. Unfortunately, the situation is no better for adults, as cardiomyopathies such as endomyocardial fibrosis and peripartum cardiomyopathy remain a challenge. The upsurge of new diseases such as hypertension, stroke, and ischemic heart disease is equally concerning. All these factors make the circumstance in sub-Saharan Africa quite unique, with a mix of congenital heart defects, poverty-related conditions, infections, and HIV-related diseases. With population demographics and lifestyle patterns in Nigeria changing rapidly, it is no surprise that cardiovascular diseases are becoming increasingly prevalent. Risk factors such as high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and diabetes are increasing in prevalence. In addition, tobacco and alcohol use remain significant issues, particularly among men. Studies have also found that physical inactivity is a problem among adolescents and adults, with many failing to meet recommended guidelines for exercise. Overweight and obesity rates are also high, particularly among adults, and diabetes is a growing concern. As risk factors for cardiovascular disease continue to rise in Nigeria, so does the burden on the healthcare system. With the country facing a shortage of specialists and resources to alleviate the burden, addressing these issues is vital to avoid further strain on the healthcare system and the economy as a whole. Reducing the incidence of CVD starts with lowering blood pressure through medication, cholesterol control, and simple lifestyle changes. If necessary, surgery such as bypass, balloon angioplasty, valve repair, and heart transplantation can be used. However, the cost of cardiology care is high and often unaffordable – the average cost of a valve replacement operation at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) is N3.2 million (US$7,600), and a regular “hole in heart surgery” ranges between N2.5 and N2.7 million (US$5,900-6,400). When compared to the economic situation in the country and the striking poverty rates, these costs appear staggering. The average monthly income in Nigeria ranges between N85,700 (US$210) and N1.5 million (US$3,700), and 63% of the population lives below the poverty line; as a result, the majority of the population inevitably struggles to access these life-saving cardiac procedures, making them an unaffordable luxury for many Nigerians. And it’s not just the cost of these procedures that hinders access, the scarcity of facilities that conduct these procedures also poses a big challenge. Heart surgeries in Nigeria are limited to just 13 centers, including Lagoon Hospitals, LASUTH, University College Hospital Ibadan, and others. In 2021, these centers carried out 200 surgeries, a relatively low number compared to the country’s disease burden. Dr. Bode Falase, a Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon and Head of the Cardiothoracic Division at LASUTH, noted that while the country has the expertise and facilities to conduct more surgeries, the high cost of the procedures prevents many patients from accessing them. The World Health Organization recommends that Nigeria perform 40,000 surgeries yearly, highlighting the need to improve access to these life-saving procedures. In Lagos State, for example, there are only four specialized cardiology centers: First Cardiology Consultants, Uracare Multi-Specialist Hospital, Evercare Hospital, and Reddington Hospital. All of these institutions are privately owned and operated, primarily catering to affluent individuals or employees of companies with robust insurance coverage. Dr. Okechukwu Ogah, the President of the Nigerian Cardiac Society, explains that poverty is linked to the prevalence of heart disease, as it prevents people from paying for their treatment and receiving adequate care. Nigeria’s battle against the rising tide of cardiovascular disease is being undermined by a crucial weakness: the country’s dearth of proficient cardiac surgeons and specialists. The result is a growing number of patients without access to specialized care There is only one cardiologist for every 10,000 people in Nigeria, and there are only 75 registered cardiac surgeons in the country – a number further depleted as 12 of them have left the country in search of better opportunities. Brain drain, lack of training opportunities, and inadequate infrastructure contribute to this shortage. Brain drain is a phenomenon that affects many developing countries, including Nigeria. Many trained professionals, including doctors and specialists, leave the country searching for better opportunities abroad, leaving the country deprived of trained professionals. This brain drain is compounded by the lack of adequate training opportunities for medical professionals in Nigeria.

Our medical personnel were warmly received by the team at Supreme Education Foundation School, Magodo for Basic Life Support (BLS) training in an effort to teach the staff and students how to perform CPR and other basic cardiovascular life support skills necessary for survival and resuscitation in emergency situations. BLS training serves as part of our CSR efforts gradually being rolled out across schools in Ikeja. Kindly reach out to 0703 052 7269 for more information on how to schedule a visit to your institution. We will look after you.

Today’s women’s health and consultation camp afforded attendees the opportunity to speak with our OBGYN team and receive personalized medical advice tailored to their needs. We encourage you to visit us today at 91, Adeniyi Jones Avenue, Ikeja to discuss your reproductive health concerns in a safe and confidential environment. We will look after you.

Struggling with reproductive health issues and challenges? Join us at our upcoming Women’s Health & Consultation Camp and have all your pressing questions and concerns addressed at no charge. Our team of Obstetricians and Gynecologists will be on hand to provide free medical advice and second opinions on a variety of issues ranging from Infertility to Bleeding in Pregnancy, Menopause, Abnormal Uterine Bleeding, Difficult Pregnancies, Uterine Fibroids and other Gynecological conditions. Kindly register via the link below and visit us at 91, Adeniyi Jones Avenue, Ikeja. https://bit.ly/3oPpeWT Time & Date: May 6th (8am prompt) We will look after you.

In commemoration of the recently concluded World Safety Week, our HSE team visited our esteemed clients at Amazon Energy Nigeria to educate the staff on the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases. This was followed by a demonstration on international best practices in HSE, as well as complementary health assessment for all attendees. It’s always a pleasure to support our clients in their quest to foster a healthy environment.

It was a pleasure to welcome our esteemed Directors, Fola Laoye & Olugbenga GB Agboola, at our new multi-specialist facility and Centre of Excellence for Cardiology & Cardiac Health Management. They were warmly received by Dr Ayobami Kuyoro, Managing Director, Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals Victoria Island, and Dr Idowu Adebiyi, Group Head of Operations at Iwosan Investments. Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals Victoria Island is carefully modeled for individuals who seek wholesome and advanced medical care delivered by renowned Clinical and Surgical Super-Specialists. The facility will provide both Nigerians and the International community with quicker access to Interventional Cardiology, Interventional Radiology and Laparoscopic services with optimal outcomes. To book a specialist consultation, please call 0708 060 9000, 08065757205, 07068974833 or visit our website. We will look after you.

We are glad to have provided Basic Life Support (BLS) training at Tender Cradle School Ikeja. Our team was on hand to equip the staff with essential CPR and first aid skills to enable them swiftly and confidently respond in emergency situations. We are committed to developing our host communities through health education and practice-based learning. Visit us at Ikeja (Obafemi Awolowo & Adeniyi Jones) to discuss collaboration opportunities or call 0703 052 7269. We will look after you.

It was a pleasure to attend this year’s edition of the NECA Annual Retreat for Business Managers held in Abeokuta. Dr. Ayobami Kuyoro, Managing Director, Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals, Victoria Island, delivered a lecture, titled “Healthy Heart, Healthy Life; Strategies for Maintaining Cardiovascular Health” and our clinical team provided timely consultations for attendees. For comprehensive Cardiac / Cardiovascular management, kindly visit our facility at 3B Ligali Ayorinde Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, or call 07068974833, 08065757205 to see a Cardiologist.

Over the past couple of months, we have intensified our corporate roadshows which are geared towards health and wellness sensitization and curbing disease burdens among working class Nigerians in both private and public sectors, as well as the Expatriate community. We visited the Nigerian Shippers Council and our Consultant Nephrologist, Dr. Ibukun Adeyinka, guided the executives on the modern approaches to optimizing Kidney Health. We are committed to fostering general wellbeing and will continue to partner with key players across various industries to promote public health.

Our World Kidney Day screening exercise which took place on the 9th & 10th of March was a success. We are glad to have supported all attendees with comprehensive kidney evaluation and assessment. To schedule an appointment with a Nephrologist, please call 0708 060 9000 or send us a message. We will look after you.