New findings from health authorities are ringing alarm bells over an emerging health crisis among Nigerian men aged 50 and above.
A dangerous combination of substance abuse, excessive intake of hemp, soda, energy and sugary foods, and a sedentary lifestyle is accelerating aging and exposing millions to chronic diseases — and even premature death.
Experts say that a man in his fifties who regularly consumes energy drinks, fizzy beverages, sugary snacks, and engages in little to no physical activity — while also indulging in drugs or alcohol — is “a ticking time bomb.”
Research shows that older adults who abuse drugs face higher risks of falls, memory loss, liver damage, stroke, and cardiovascular disease.
Age diminishes the body’s ability to metabolize harmful substances, increasing the risk of overdose and long-term damage. The aging body also processes drugs and alcohol more slowly, increasing toxicity and compounding existing health conditions.
High consumption of sugary sodas and energy drinks, which often contain excessive caffeine and sugar, has been linked to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and liver damage.
Studies show that daily soda drinkers face a 20% higher risk of dying from heart disease, while frequent sugar intake contributes to rapid weight gain and metabolic disorders.
Energy drinks, while marketed as revitalizers, can strain the heart, raise blood pressure, and lead to kidney complications.
The risks increase significantly for men who lead sedentary lifestyles. Prolonged inactivity contributes to muscle loss, bone thinning, and weakened metabolism.
The studies indicate that sedentary behavior is a major contributor to premature death, with physical inactivity ranking among the top risk factors for non-communicable diseases.
When these habits—substance abuse, high sugar intake, and inactivity—combine, they create a perfect storm. The result is often rapid physical and cognitive decline, with men in their 50s developing conditions typically seen in much older populations. In many cases, substance abuse alone can shorten life expectancy by several decades.
Despite the grim outlook, health professionals emphasize that change is possible. Reducing sugar intake, eliminating substance use, drinking more water, eating balanced meals, and introducing regular exercise can help reverse some of the damage and improve both longevity and quality of life.
Public health advocates are calling for greater awareness and government-backed wellness initiatives targeting men over 50, especially those already at risk. Early intervention and lifestyle changes are essential to curbing this growing health crisis.
