Main Article Content
Healthy Environment for Children: The Nigerian Situation
Abstract
Background: The theme for the World Health Day 2003 is “Healthy Environment for Children”. As a follow-up action, this article reviews the state of the environment in Nigeria and the health indices for the Nigerian child.
Methods: Information was extracted from records and survey reports published by government units, scientific publications, newspapers and the internet.
Results: The basic environmental risks from inadequate water supply, sanitation, food hygiene and poor housing, are still uncontrolled in Nigeria. Emerging risks from the social environment and industrialization are increasing, and the overall health indices for the Nigerian child is poor.
Conclusion: A concerted action plan to improve the Nigerian environment for children should be drawn by a government appointed task force for implementation by the government, community groups and non-governmental organizations.
Key Words: Environment, Nigeria, Children.
(J College Med: 2003 8(1): 50-52)
Methods: Information was extracted from records and survey reports published by government units, scientific publications, newspapers and the internet.
Results: The basic environmental risks from inadequate water supply, sanitation, food hygiene and poor housing, are still uncontrolled in Nigeria. Emerging risks from the social environment and industrialization are increasing, and the overall health indices for the Nigerian child is poor.
Conclusion: A concerted action plan to improve the Nigerian environment for children should be drawn by a government appointed task force for implementation by the government, community groups and non-governmental organizations.
Key Words: Environment, Nigeria, Children.
(J College Med: 2003 8(1): 50-52)
