'Get More Involved in Sporting Activities'...

As the maiden Nigerian Medical Doctors Games ends in Akwa Ibom State, Minister of Health, Professor Onyebuchi Chukwu, has advised medical doctors to practise what they preach by getting more involved in sporting activities and others that promote healthy living.

Chukwu who spoke while flagging off the maiden edition of Nigerian Medical Doctors' Games organised by the Nigerian Medical Association in Eket, Akwa Ibom State noted that the link between lack of exercise, poor nutrition and smoking as well as development of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) like obesity, diabetes and heart diseases have been scientifically proven.

The Minister was of the view that Games will reduce mortality and morbidity among members.

At the Games tagged "let the doctors play", Chukwu revealed that the concept of having games for doctors on annual basis is a great initiative that demonstrates the value and role of sports as a component of the overall strategy for the promotion of healthy living amongst the citizenry as they take a cue from doctors who do not smoke, and are physically active.

"The link between lack of exercise, poor nutrition and smoking and the development of Non-communicable diseases, NCDs like obesity, diabetes and heart disease have been scientifically proven. Proven too are the profound beneficial effects physical activity had both on the prevention of these conditions and on the amelioration and reversal of their negative effects on the bodies.

The concept of having these games for doctors on annual basis is a great initiative that demonstrates in clear terms, the value and role of sport as a component of the overall strategy for the promotion of healthy living amongst the citizenry as they take a cue from doctors who do not smoke, are not overweight and are physically active."

He stated that it will also encourage the Nigerian doctors to live a healthy lifestyle, thereby practising what they preach. He maintained that the salutary effect of such games on the local economy is not in doubt as sports in general promote tourism.

President, NMA, Dr. Osahon Enabulele told the gathering that the games were in response to the increasing deaths amongst doctors/dentists.

The event featured football, Lawn tennis (male and female), table tennis (male and female), basket ball (male and female), badminton (male and female) scrabble (male and female), Chess (male and female) and draught (male).

Enabulele said the association identified the need for a strategic response to the increasing deaths amongst doctors/dentists thereby put in place the Doctors Games to stem the work stress on medical doctors.

Keep staying Healthy, Informed and Entertained...!
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