Prof. Mistura Azeez Calls For Modern Equipment, Environmental Health Measures In Veterinary Practices
Professor Oyebisi Mistura Azeez of the Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine has called for more investment in State-of-the-Art Equipment to enhance modern research tools comparable to those used globally.
Prof. Azeez, who made the call at the 269th inaugural lecture of the University of Ilorin, held at the institution’s auditorium on Thursday, November 21, presented her groundbreaking insights into the crucial role of cardiovascular health in humans and animals.
The inaugural lecturer noted that such equipment would enhance the university’s research capabilities and support the institution’s 1:10:100 academic excellence agenda as envisioned by the Vice-Chancellor.
Her lecture, titled “The Matter of the Heart on the Survival of Animal and Man,” emphasised the interplay between environmental factors, cardiovascular health, and the need for advanced research tools.
Professor Azeez stressed the foundational role of physiology in medical and veterinary education and outlined strategic recommendations aimed at fostering cardiovascular health, improving veterinary practices, and safeguarding public health.
The don, who stressed the need to minimise exposure to petroleum emissions,
highlighted the dangers of emissions from diesel, petrol, and kerosene, she warned against their adverse health effects, including cardiovascular challenges and sudden deaths.
The professor of Ventinery Medicine advised humans and animals, particularly grazing livestock along highways, to minimise exposure to these pollutants.
According to her, there is the need for the planting and utilisation of Moringa and other medicinal plants, because their antioxidant properties and effectiveness in mitigating the effects of environmental toxins on exposed individuals and animals.
She recommended regular monitoring of blood pressure and other vital parameters for early detection and management of health issues.
The lecturer called on governments and institutional managers to ensure hygienic environments free from open-air emissions from diesel engines and generators.
This, she noted, would protect workers and residents from the harmful effects of such pollutants.
Professor Azeez proposed incorporating ECG technology into veterinary care to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular issues, particularly in animals exposed to environmental toxins and exotic species.
Azeez called for increased funding for research into medicinal plants with antioxidant properties saying these studies could offer solutions for mitigating the harmful impacts of hydrocarbons on cardiovascular and respiratory health.
The inaugural lecturer advocated for the provision of safer migration routes for grazing livestock during the dry season to reduce their exposure to environmental hazards.
Professor Azeez made an urgent call for collaborative efforts among governments, academic institutions, and the public to implement these recommendations.
She emphasised that safeguarding cardiovascular health is vital to the survival and well-being of both humans and animals.
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