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A professor in the Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Ilorin, Oyebisi Mistura Azeez, has advised people to minimise exposure to petroleum emissions to prevent cardiovascular health in humans and animals.
Delivering the 269th inaugural lecture of the university, titled, “The Matter of the Heart on the Survival of Animal and Man”, Professor Azeez highlighted dangers of emissions from pollutants such as diesel, petrol, and kerosene.
She warned against their adverse health effects, including cardiovascular challenges and sudden deaths.
Professor Azeez advised humans and animals, particularly grazing livestock along highways, to minimise exposure to these pollutants.
The professor, who emphasised the interplay between environmental factors, cardiovascular health, and the need for advanced research tools, stressed the foundational role of physiology in medical and veterinary education and outlined strategic recommendations aimed at fostering cardiovascular health, improving veterinary practices, and safeguarding public health.
She advocated planting and utilisation of Moringa and other medicinal plants, emphasising their antioxidant properties and effectiveness in mitigating effects of environmental toxins on exposed individuals and animals.
Professor Azeez also called for acquisition of modern research tools comparable to those used globally, adding that such equipment would enhance the university’s research capabilities and support the institution’s 1:10:100 academic excellence agenda as envisioned by the Vice-Chancellor.
Stressing the importance of preventive healthcare, she recommended regular monitoring of blood pressure and other vital parameters for early detection and management of health issues.
She called on governments and institutional managers to ensure hygienic environments free from open-air emissions from diesel engines and generators.
This, she noted, would protect workers and residents from the harmful effects of such pollutants.
Professor Azeez proposed incorporating ECG technology into veterinary care to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular issues, particularly in animals exposed to environmental toxins and exotic species.
Recognising the potential of antioxidants in combating environmental toxins, she urged increased funding for research into medicinal plants with antioxidant properties.
These studies could offer solutions for mitigating the harmful impacts of hydrocarbons on cardiovascular and respiratory health.
She advocated for the provision of safer migration routes for grazing livestock during the dry season to reduce their exposure to environmental hazards.
Professor Azeez sought collaborative efforts among governments, academic institutions, and the public to implement the recommendations, saying that safeguarding cardiovascular health is vital to the survival and well-being of both humans and animals.
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