Raising awareness of chronic disease prevention and treatment

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Extract from the article: Dans le cadre de la 6ème édition du MaBEST, Santé-Éducation a organisé le 19 décembre 2024, une conférence publique santé autour de deux thématiques importantes : « On peut vaincre, l’hypertension, le diabète et le cancer » et « Notre alimentation pe

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As part of the 6th edition of MaBEST, Santé-Éducation organized a public health conference on December 19, 2024, focusing on two important themes: “We can beat hypertension, diabetes and cancer” and “Our food can cure us”. The event, which took place at the Collège Protestant Lomé-Tokoin, attracted a large audience keen to explore natural and preventive approaches to improving their quality of life.

The first theme, “We can beat hypertension, diabetes and cancer”, was led respectively by Dr Damien Ekoué-Kouvahey, President of the Fédération Togolaise des associations engagées dans la lutte contre les maladies non transmissibles (FETOL-MNT), and Mathieu Tobossi, Specialist in hygiene and food quality.  After presenting the risk factors and complications, the specialists explored ways of preventing and combating these dreaded chronic diseases, which affect a growing proportion of the Togolese population.  They recommended a balanced diet, rich in fiber and antioxidants, as well as regular physical activity, even in moderation, such as walking.

“The figures for these diseases are alarming. NCDs are the leading cause of mortality and morbidity. We need to take action on the risk factors that give rise to these diseases: diets with too much sugar, too much fat and too much salt. The good news is that they can be prevented or even reversed through lifestyle changes,” emphasized Dr Damien Ekoué-Kouvahey.

“We can beat diabetes, hypertension and cancer. We need to avoid excess salt, alcohol, cube, refined oils. These foods accelerate the breakdown of vital organs. We must always eat fruit and vegetables, which contain fiber. These prevent the development of tumor cells. Opt for locally produced, cold-pressed palm, kluiklui and soybean oils. They should also be alternated”, Mathieu Tobossi insisted.

The second presentation, on the theme “Our food can heal us”, was given by Pr Koffi Koudouvo, Senior Lecturer in Ethno-Botany at the University of Lomé, and Ginette Hounkpè, Nutritionist.

The main aim of these presentations was to demonstrate that enlightened dietary choices can have beneficial effects on the body, particularly as a complement to conventional medical treatments.

In this respect, the specialists underlined the impact of plants in the treatment and cure of pathologies, and the importance of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant-rich diets tailored to the specific needs of each individual.

“80% of our populations rely on traditional medicine (TM) for healthcare, and the raw material of TM is medicinal plants.Medicinal plants heal.The most important thing is to learn more about these plants and the best practices for better phytotherapy care”.

For Ginette Hounkpè, “Healing through food.Yes, it's possible.Nutrients from a good diet can help repair body tissue.Eating well can accelerate the healing process,” said Ginette Hounkpè.

The Chairman of MaBEST 6 presented the results of the event, and called on all ppulations to focus on NCD prevention.  “We've achieved our objectives, to bring and educate people to be aware of the progression of NCDs in the country. So we need to inform and raise awareness. Our health is a priority. We have to take responsibility for our own health,” emphasized Gadiel Tsonyadzi.

MaBEST 2024 was held against a backdrop marked by the worrying rise of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Togo, according to the STEPS 2021 survey.

This edition enabled Santé-Education to draw people's attention to the subject.The newspaper recently recommended the organization of a major emergency multi-sectoral meeting and the adoption of a 2025-2030 action plan to combat NCDs.

William O.