The Mortality of Serving African Presidents: A Lesson for the Health Profession and the Lay Public
The Nigerian Health Journal
; 12(4): 106-109, 2012.
Article
in En
| AIM
| ID: biblio-1272840
Responsible library:
CG1.1
ABSTRACT
Although Africa has the worst mortality data in the world; the picture painted by the high mortality rate of serving Africa leaders in the last five years suggests reasons and causes far beyond poor socio-economic conditions. This study examined the causes and age at death of serving African leaders; in the last five years; and draws out the lessons; for the health profession and the general public.Material and methods:
An internet search of creditable websites was carried out to determine the number; causes and age at deaths of the leaders; within the study period of 2008 to 2012. The life expectancy rates of the bereaved countries were also considered.Results:
A total of 13 presidential mortalities took place in the world during the study period; with 10 (76.92) involving serving African leaders. The leaders died at an average age of 66.9 +/- 7.22 years; an average of 12.1 years above the life expectancy rate of their respective countries; but less than the world average of 68 years. Most (80.00) of the leaders died from non-communicable diseases; 3 died from cardiovascular diseases; 3 died from cancer; while two were known diabetics. The remaining two leaders were killed in a violent change of government.Conclusion:
The African leaders died mainly from non-communicable diseases; at an age that is below the world average. Public enlightenment campaigns and greater emphasis on patient-centered chronic care of non-communicable diseases are hereby recommended
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Database:
AIM
Main subject:
Social Change
/
Social Conditions
/
Infant, Premature
/
Chronic Disease
/
Life Expectancy
/
Long-Term Care
/
Patient-Centered Care
/
Health Systems Plans
/
Life Support Systems
Aspects:
Determinantes_sociais_saude
/
Patient_preference
Language:
En
Journal:
The Nigerian Health Journal
Year:
2012
Document type:
Article