World Bicycle Day: Embrace cycling to improve personal health – Physician

A General Practitioner, Dr Tunji Akintade, has advised Nigerians to embrace cycling to improve personal health and well-being.

He gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos during an event to commemorate the 2023 World Bicycle Day.

World Bicycle Day is celebrated annually on June 3 to encourage more people to choose bicycles as a mode of transport and to reduce traffic congestion, fossil fuel, and carbon emissions while improving personal health and well-being.

The theme for World Bicycle Day 2023 is, ‘Riding Together for a Sustainable Future’.

Dr, Akintade noted that promoting cycling in Nigeria was critical to reducing the high burden of non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and to lower air and noise pollution.

According to him, embracing bicycles as a mode of transportation is currently crucial as many citizens are battling with the challenges brought about by increased fuel price and the high cost of transportation arising from fuel subsidy removal.

He said, “Cycling is apt, now that Nigerians are going through a fuel crisis as it would help save money and keep people healthy.

“A lot of people aren’t exercising. Cycling in the morning and evening is good to curtail the risk of non-communicable diseases.

“Instead of driving cars to markets or to visit friends in our neighbourhood, we can use our bicycles. Cycling can help improve cardiovascular, lung, and mental health.

“It is an enjoyable way to stay healthy as it helps you to lose weight, lower your cholesterol and strengthen your legs.”

The physician said aside from the health benefits, cycling can also help to reduce traffic congestion, air pollution, improve public health and foster a cleaner environment.

He advised cyclists to prioritise their safety by adorning protective gear and to obeying traffic rules.

He also warned against cycling on highways to avoid accidents.

Dr. Akintade appealed to the government to promote cycling through the creation of dedicated cycling and walking lanes, street lights and improved security to enhance safety.

(NAN)