Lagos is a vibrant, fast-paced city — but like other major urban centres, it faces significant health challenges. Many of the diseases that cause the highest number of deaths are preventable, yet they continue to affect thousands every year.
Understanding who is most at risk helps you protect yourself and your family. Below are the top 5 killer diseases in Lagos, the age groups most affected, and what you can do to stay healthy.
1. Hypertension & Heart Disease
Most affected age group:
Adults aged 35–70 years, especially men over 40 and women after menopause.
Younger adults (20–35 years) are increasingly affected because of stress, obesity, alcohol abuse, smoking, and poor diet.
Why it matters:
Hypertension often has no symptoms until it causes stroke, heart failure, or sudden death.
Protect yourself:
- Check your blood pressure every 3–6 months
- Reduce salt and processed foods
- Exercise regularly
- Take prescribed medications regularly if diagnosed
2. Diabetes
Most affected age group:
Adults aged 30–65 years
But cases are rising among younger adults due to lifestyle changes.
Why it matters:
Late diagnosis leads to complications like kidney failure, amputation, blindness, and stroke.
Protect yourself:
- Eat balanced meals
- Reduce sugary foods
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Screen annually if you're above 35 or have a family history
3. Malaria
Most affected age groups:
Children under 5 years (highest risk of severe malaria and death)
Pregnant women
Older adults (60+) also have higher complications.
All age groups are affected, especially during the rainy season.
Why it matters:
Malaria progresses quickly and can become severe within 24–48 hours.
Protect yourself:
- Sleep under treated mosquito nets
- Clear stagnant water
- Seek treatment immediately when symptoms start
- Pregnant women should receive preventive malaria care
4. Lower Respiratory Infections (Pneumonia)
Most affected age groups:
Children under 5 (leading cause of childhood death)
Adults above 60 years
People with asthma, chronic lung disease, or weak immunity
Why it matters:
Symptoms escalate quickly and can be fatal when treatment is delayed.
Protect yourself:
- Vaccinate children (PCV, Hib)
- Treat cough and fever early
- Avoid indoor smoke
- Seek medical help for breathing difficulty
5. Road Traffic Injuries
Most affected age groups: Young adults aged 15–45 years
This age group is more likely to be on motorcycles, drive frequently, or be in commercial vehicles.
Why it matters:
Road traffic injuries are a major cause of sudden death in Lagos.
Protect yourself:
- Always wear a seatbelt
- Wear helmets on bikes
- Avoid speeding, night driving, drinking and phone use while driving
- Use pedestrian bridges safely
Final Thoughts: Protecting Lagos Families
Most major killer diseases in Lagos affect children under 5, adults between 30–70, and older persons above 60. But with early screening, timely diagnosis, and preventive care, you can drastically reduce your risk.
Mascot Healthcare provides:
- Blood pressure & diabetes checks
- Malaria testing and treatment
- Child wellness care
- Ultrasound and health screening packages
- Preventive health education