Date: 25 September, 202
By Abraham Ovuoba
Medical experts have called for stronger preventive measures and collective action by government, schools and communities to reduce lung diseases and promote lifelong lung health in Ebonyi State.
The experts made the call on Friday in Abakaliki during the commemoration of World Lung Day 2026, organised by the Institute of Child Health, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki (AEFUTHA), in collaboration with Pan-African Thoracic Society, and the Breathers’ Club.
Speaking at the event, a Consultant Paediatrician and Director, Institute of Child Health, AEFUTHA, Prof. (Mrs) Thecla Chinonyelum Ezeonu, said this year’s theme, “ A Lifetime of Lung Health” underscored the need for people to protect their lungs throughout their lives.
Mrs Ezeonu, who is also the founder of the Breathers’ Club, urged the public to avoid exposure to harmful substances, including cigarette smoke, firewood smoke, dust and other particles that could damage the lungs.
She stressed that lung-health education should begin early, particularly among secondary school students, saying the initiative was designed to catch them young and build a healthier future.
The paediatrician also called for collaboration among government ministries and agencies, noting that promoting public health was not the work of the Ministry of Health alone but a collective responsibilities.
She advocated proper regulation of quarry activities, protection of quarry workers with appropriate protective equipment, environmental cleanliness and increased tree planting, describing trees as natural air purifiers.
Also speaking, the Former Chief Medical Director, AE-FUTHA and Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Prof. Ezeonu Olisa-Emeka, said the programme was aimed at equipping young people with knowledge to recognise lung-related conditions, including asthma, tuberculosis and whooping cough, and seek early medical attention.
He advised people with persistent cough, particularly cough lasting more than two weeks to consult medical professionals for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Speaking on behalf of participating teachers, Mr Nwoke Emmanuel thanked the organisers and pledged that teachers would disseminate the knowledge acquired to students in their respective schools.
The event also featured a quiz competition involving students from; Nnodo Secondary School, RISA Secondary School, Abakaliki High School, Great Minds Academy, Modern Comprehensive Secondary School and EBSU Secondary School, with Modern Comprehensive Secondary School emerging first.
