Prevalence and Risk Factors of Cardiovascular Diseases among the Nigerian Population: A New Trend among Adolescents and Youths

Abstract

This chapter gives an overview of the prevalence and risk factors of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) among Nigerian population with emphasis on the younger population. The Nigerian population is largely dominated by youths who contribute significantly toward economic growth of the country. Addressing the issues of cardiovascular diseases among this population offers an opportunity toward increasing life expectancy and building a healthy nation. In order to understand the issues at hand, this chapter detailed the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases among youths, and it also identifies the risk factors that contribute to the development of CVDs among the population. Furthermore, it gave recommendations on how the issue of CVDs among the younger population can be addressed.