Migrant health is a significant public health concern globally, and it is essential to understand the common health issues that affect migrants to provide appropriate healthcare services. According to the Migration Observatory at the University of Oxford, Nigerians are one of the largest groups of migrants in the UK, with over 220,000 Nigerians living in the country in 2021.
This article aims to discuss the common health issues that affect Nigerians living in the UK based on national statistics.
Mental Health
Mental health is a significant concern among Nigerians living in the UK. According to a study by the Mental Health Foundation, Black people in the UK are more likely to experience mental health problems than the general population. The study found that Nigerians were more likely to experience depression and anxiety than other Black groups in the UK. The reasons for this include stress related to migration, racism, and discrimination.
Cardiovascular Diseases
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death worldwide and affect Nigerians living in the UK. According to the British Heart Foundation, people of African and African Caribbean descent are at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure, which is a significant risk factor for CVD. The prevalence of high blood pressure among Nigerians in the UK is also higher than the general population.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a significant health issue affecting Nigerians living in the UK. According to the UK National Diabetes Audit, people of Black African and Black Caribbean descent are at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The prevalence of diabetes among Nigerians in the UK is also higher than the general population.
Infectious Diseases
Infectious diseases are also a significant concern among Nigerians living in the UK. According to a study by Public Health England, Nigerians are one of the highest groups affected by tuberculosis (TB) in the UK. The study found that Nigerians had the second-highest rate of TB after people born in sub-Saharan Africa. The prevalence of HIV is also higher among Nigerians living in the UK than the general population.
Cancer
Cancer is a significant health issue among Nigerians living in the UK. According to Cancer Research UK, people of African and African Caribbean descent are more likely to develop and die from certain types of cancer, including prostate, breast, and bowel cancer. The reasons for this include genetics, lifestyle factors, and barriers to accessing healthcare.
Your Health and Wellbeing
Moving to a new country can be challenging, and it can be challenging to maintain good health and well-being while adjusting to a new environment. For Nigerian doctors who have migrated to the UK, there are several ways to improve their health and well-being.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is crucial for maintaining good health and well-being. Nigerian doctors in the UK can incorporate traditional Nigerian foods into their diet while also trying new foods that are available in the UK. It is essential to eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Additionally, reducing the consumption of processed foods and sugary drinks can improve overall health.
Engage in Regular Exercise
Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good physical and mental health. Nigerian doctors in the UK can engage in various physical activities, such as jogging, cycling, and swimming, to keep fit. Joining a gym or sports club is an excellent way to stay motivated and meet new people while improving overall health.
Manage Stress
Stress is a common issue that can affect the health and well-being of Nigerian doctors in the UK. Engaging in activities such as yoga, meditation, or mindfulness can help reduce stress levels. Additionally, spending time with friends and family, engaging in hobbies, or seeking support from a counsellor or therapist can help manage stress and improve overall well-being.
Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough sleep is crucial for maintaining good health and well-being. Nigerian doctors in the UK can establish a regular sleep routine, ensuring they get seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Additionally, avoiding electronics and caffeine before bedtime can improve the quality of sleep.
Access Healthcare Services
Accessing healthcare services is essential for maintaining good health and well-being. Nigerian doctors in the UK can register with a general practitioner (GP) and attend regular check-ups to monitor their health. It is also essential to attend routine screenings and seek medical attention when necessary.
Connect with the Nigerian Community
Connecting with the Nigerian community in the UK can provide a sense of belonging and support, which can improve overall health and well-being. Nigerian doctors can attend cultural events, join social groups, or engage in community service to connect with the Nigerian community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Nigerians living in the UK face significant health issues, including mental health, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, infectious diseases, and cancer. Healthcare providers and policymakers need to understand the common health issues that affect Nigerians to provide appropriate healthcare services and improve health outcomes. Additionally, efforts to address the social determinants of health, such as racism, discrimination, and access to healthcare, are essential to reduce health disparities among Nigerians living in the UK. Nigerian doctors migrants in the UK can improve their health and well-being by maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, managing stress, getting enough sleep, accessing healthcare services, and connecting with the Nigerian community. These steps can help maintain good physical and mental health, making the adjustment to life in the UK more manageable.
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