In a timely warning ahead of the highly anticipated African Cup of Nations final between Nigeria and Ivory Coast, Professor Ranti Familoni, a distinguished medical expert in cardiology from Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State, has issued a stern advisory for individuals with “unstable cardiovascular conditions” to avoid watching the match. This advice comes in the wake of recent alarming incidents where individuals have collapsed and died during similar high-intensity events.
The urgency of this warning is underscored by reports from SaharaReporters highlighting tragic events where spectators, including a political figure and a young National Youth Service Corps member, succumbed to sudden cardiac death while watching a football game. Professor Familoni, in his conversation with PUNCH, clarified that such fatalities often occur in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, which might be unknown to them.
Professor Familoni criticized the common reaction of bystanders who flee from victims experiencing medical emergencies, such as epileptic seizures, emphasizing the dangers of neglecting those in distress. He also cautioned against the misuse of sexual enhancement drugs by those with heart conditions, linking such practices to potential fatal outcomes.
Focusing on the upcoming AFCON final, Professor Familoni advised fans to manage their emotions and medications judiciously. He highlighted the risk not only to those aware of their heart conditions but also to the many who remain undiagnosed. Conditions such as hypertension, often referred to as the “silent killer,” and Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, which can be triggered by stress and lead to sudden death, were cited as significant concerns.
The cardiologist advised that everyone, especially those with unstable heart conditions, should consider abstaining from watching Sunday’s match to prioritize their health. He urged the public to consult their doctors for a cardiovascular check-up, emphasizing the importance of monitoring one’s heart rate and seeking immediate medical attention if abnormalities are detected.