A call has been made for the strengthening of primary healthcare systems, improved training of health workers, and early identification of symptoms within communities to address the growing burden of Parkinson’s disease.
The Director and National Coordinator for Non-Communicable Diseases at the Federal Ministry of Health, Alayo Shokweko, made the call at the fourth annual event of the Adewunmi Desalu Parkinson’s Foundation held to mark World Parkinson’s Day.
Shokweko noted that although there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, early detection and proper care can significantly improve patients’ quality of life.
In her keynote address, Professor of Neurology at the University of Lagos, Njideka Okubadejo, described Parkinson’s as the fastest-growing neurological disorder globally. She stated that projections indicate that over 25 million people may be affected by 2050.
She added that awareness remains low in Nigeria, with many cases going undiagnosed, while those diagnosed often struggle with the high cost of lifelong treatment.
On her part, founder of the foundation, Mori Desalu, emphasized the importance of public education, noting that symptoms of Parkinson’s disease vary widely and are often misunderstood.
Desalu explained that while tremors are commonly associated with the disease, many patients also experience symptoms such as difficulty walking, depression, sleeplessness, and slurred speech.
The event featured panel sessions and attracted stakeholders from the health sector, local government, and students from Nigerian universities, among others.