by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Christian Health Association of Nigeria (CHAN) has stepped-up activity to strengthen collaboration in healthcare delivery with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Plateau State Council. So far, it has yielded a free Eye-care Outreach for the (Plateau) NUJ members.
While speaking recently at the NUJ Press Center Jos, during a free eye examination and distribution of reading glasses, Country Director-cum Secretary-General of CHAN, Dr. Suleiman Mshelia, said CHAN’s partnership with the NUJ is highlighted as a way to enhance their reach and impact.
According to him, the Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs), under the domain of Eye-Care services, include hypertension, heart disease and diabetes, which are now the leading causes of deaths globally.
He disclosed further that, the life expectancy of Nigerians is declining – with many dying in their 50’s or 60’s, adding that, “Data shows that people used to live longer, with some reaching 80 to 90 years, but this trend is changing.”
The Country Director explained that, research has identified a gene that contributes to longevity found in people, who live 90 to 100, adding that exercise can activate this gene, even if it is not present naturally.
He stressed that, diet also play a crucial role in longevity, with traditional diets being healthier than modern ones, and emphasizes the importance of eating natural, unprocessed foods and avoiding refined and artificial ingredients.
According to him, fruits and vegetables – especially those with vibrant colors – contain flovoris that are beneficial for health, adding that, “Colored fruits and vegetables include red Apples, Strawberries and Beetroot, among others.”
Dr. Mshelia further advised against over-cooking of vegetables, as it removes essential nutrients, and emphasizes the importance of collaborating between CHAN NUJ for effective healthcare delivery service.
He said CHAN is the coordinating umbrella organization for the Christian faith health institutions in the country, with Headquarters in Jos, zonal offices in Numan, Jos, Owerri and Ibandan.
It is a member of the African Christian Health Associations Platform (ACHAP). CHAN, as a leading Faith-based organization (FBO), provides about 40 percent of healthcare to Nigerians and 70 percent especially in hard -to-reach communities.
It currently has 684 registered member Institutions (MIs) comprising of Health Training Institutions and Healthcare facilities.
In her response, Chairman of the NUJ Plateau State Council, Ayuku Pwaspo, asserted that, “The collaboration is also to reinforce the commitment of the NUJ to support increased media visibility for CHAN’s activities, in order to enhance public awareness of its healthcare interventions.”
She noted that, “The free eye-care screening and distribution of eyeglasses was for members, who are 40 years and above.”