One-Third of Nigerian Pilgrims Seek Medical Care During Hajj

During the Hajj, one-third of the 8,303 Nigerian pilgrims sought medical care, as reported by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). The head of the Nigerian medical mission, Ibrahim Abubakar, noted that a total of 12,630 consultations occurred during the Mashair period.

Common health challenges included severe dehydration, heart-related illnesses, strokes, fractures, anemia, migraines, hyperglycemia, and pancreatitis. The medical mission referred 15 pilgrims to hospitals in Makkah for specialized treatment.

Abubakar expressed concern over the impact of stress on pilgrims' health, revealing that 70-80% of deaths recorded during the exercise were linked to heart-related complications exacerbated by stress. Additionally, 50 pilgrims developed mental health disorders due to the physical and emotional stress associated with Hajj activities.

NAHCON emphasized the need for improved emergency medical infrastructure among state pilgrim boards, particularly in Lagos and Kogi State, and called for investments in emergency response facilities to enhance healthcare delivery for future pilgrimages.