By Saheed Ibrahim

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An emeritus Professor and consultant Neurologist, Prof Arthur Onwuchekwa, has warned that cases of dementia may increase if the high rate of out-of-school children in Nigeria remains unchecked.

According to UNICEF, Nigeria has over 18 million out-of-school children and 75 percent of Nigerian children aged between seven and 14 years cannot read a simple sentence or solve a basic mathematical problem.

Onwuchekwa, a retiring professor at the Department of Medicine, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Health Science, University of Port Harcourt, said this while delivering a valedictory lecture themed, ‘Working towards a healthy brain,’ in Port Harcourt.

Onwuchekwa, a retiring professor at the Department of Medicine, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Health Science, University of Port Harcourt, said early childhood education is key to preventing dementia later in life.

While describing dementia as a brain disorder, he stressed the need for education and the child’s health, saying, “Early childhood education is very important in reducing the prevalence of dementia.

“It has been found that those who attend school between the ages of five and 16 may delay their development of dementia or they may escape it.

“From what UNESCO has said, Nigeria is the capital of out-of-school children. There are about 20 million out-of-school children. In fact, in the world, one of every five out-of-school children is a Nigerian,” Onwuchekwa stated.

In addition to early childhood education, he recommended the provision of social services by the government and exercise as part of preventing measures for dementia.

The emeritus professor further said, “No state is exempted. When they are out of school, there is no mental stimulation. So, in the future, we may have more cases of dementia.

“People should sleep well because lack of sleep can also lead to dementia. We also talk about eating healthy diets like vegetables, fruits and grains. Processed food is dangerous to the brain,” he added.