Abstract:

Terminal diseases including advanced cancers, chronic kidney disease, severe cardiovascular diseases, liver failure, and chronic respiratory illnesses are increasingly observed among young populations in developing regions. In Oji River, Udi and surrounding communities of Enugu State, Nigeria, youth exposure to unhealthy lifestyles, substance abuse, environmental pollution, poor healthcare access, and weak preventive services may accelerate progression into irreversible disease states. This study assessed major risk factors driving terminal diseases among youths in Oji River, Udi and environs, and proposed evidence-based strategies for reducing future terminal disease burden. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Chi-square tests were applied to determine associations between risk exposures and self-reported chronic symptoms (p < 0.05). Out of 400 questionnaires distributed, 378 were correctly completed (response rate: 94.5%). Risk factors identified included frequent alcohol consumption (47.6%), cigarette smoking (18.5%), illicit drug use (13.2%), low physical activity (56.4%), unhealthy dietary practices (61.1%), and high reliance on self-medication (68.2%). Environmental exposure to smoke, fumes and waste-burning pollution was reported by 41.5%. Screening practices were poor: blood pressure checks (22.8%), blood glucose checks (14.0%), and hepatitis screening (11.6%). Chi-square analysis showed significant associations between smoking/pollution exposure and persistent cough/breathlessness (p < 0.05). Terminal disease risks among youths in Oji River and Udi are increasing due to modifiable behavioral and environmental exposures coupled with poor preventive health utilization. Interventions such as routine screening programs, youth-targeted health education, improved primary healthcare access, environmental pollution regulation, and stronger control of alcohol and tobacco use are urgently needed.

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