Diya Ololade is an occupational health and safety module facilitator and currently serves as the deputy director of clinical service at Atlantis Pediatric and Multi-specialist Hospital Lekki Phase1. Diya is a passionate healthcare professional with an insatiable quest for excellence; he is charting courses in preventive medicine and non-invasive reproductive surgery and remains committed to being a resourceful doctor for his patients. In this interview with ATHEKAME KENNETH, he spoke on many issues, including how the sexual health impact the economy and the Nigeria care system. Excerpts:

What are the most significant economic impacts of sexual health issues in Nigeria?

Studies have shown that sexual health issues in Nigeria have significant economic impacts, including: Healthcare costs: The treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other sexual; Health conditions can be expensive, placing a burden on individuals and the healthcare system; Lost productivity: STIs can lead to absenteeism from work and school due to illness, reducing productivity and economic output. Disability and premature death: Some STIs, such as HIV/AIDS, can lead to disability and premature death, further reducing productivity and increasing healthcare costs. Stigma and discrimination: People living with STIs may face stigma and discrimination, which can lead to social isolation and economic hardship. Unintended pregnancies: Unintended pregnancies can have significant economic consequences for individuals and families, including increased healthcare costs, lost income, and reduced educational attainment. Overall, sexual health issues in Nigeria have a significant economic impact, affecting individuals, families, and the country as a whole.

How does the Nigerian government’s current approach to sexual health impact the economy?

The Nigerian government’s current approach to sexual health has a significant impact on the economy through Population Growth: Nigeria has a high fertility rate, contributing to rapid population growth. This puts a strain on resources, infrastructure, and job creation. Inadequate sexual health services
can lead to unintended pregnancies, further exacerbating this issue.

Maternal and Child Health: Poor sexual health outcomes, such as high rates of maternal mortality and infant mortality, have a direct economic cost. Lost productivity due to illness and death, as well as the financial burden of healthcare, impact households and the economy as a whole.

What are the potential economic benefits of investing in comprehensive sexual health education and services in Nigeria?

Investing in comprehensive sexual health education and services in Nigeria could bring about several potential economic benefits: Reduced healthcare costs: Preventing unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can significantly lower healthcare expenditures for individuals, families, and the government. Increased productivity: When individuals are healthy and have access to reproductive healthcare, they are more likely to be productive members of the workforce. Reduced poverty: Unintended pregnancies and STIs can trap individuals and families in cycles of poverty. Investing in sexual health can help break these cycles. Improved education outcomes: When young people have access to accurate sexual health information, they are more likely to stay in school and complete their education. Enhanced economic growth: A healthy and educated population is essential for economic growth and development.

How does the prevalence of STIs/HIV/AIDS impact labor productivity and economic growth in Nigeria?

The prevalence of STIs and HIV/AIDS significantly impacts labor productivity and economic growth in Nigeria in several ways. Firstly, a high incidence of these diseases leads to increased healthcare costs for individuals and the government, diverting funds from other crucial areas.

Secondly, affected individuals often face decreased productivity due to illness, absenteeism, and early mortality, which reduces the overall labor force. Additionally, businesses may experience higher turnover rates and lower morale among employees, further hindering productivity. This decline in labor efficiency ultimately stifles economic growth, as a less productive workforce cannot contribute effectively to economic activities. Also, families dealing with the economic burden of healthcare expenses may experience poverty, leading to a cycle of reduced investment in education and future workforce capabilities, further exacerbating the issue in the long term.

What is the economic burden of unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions on the Nigerian healthcare system and the economy as a whole?

The economic burden of unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions on the Nigerian the healthcare system and the overall economy is substantial. Unintended pregnancies can lead to increased healthcare costs due to the need for prenatal care, childbirth services, and postnatal care. Additionally, unsafe abortions often result in severe complications, requiring emergency medical treatment, which places further strain on healthcare resources.

From an economic perspective, unintended pregnancies can lead to lost productivity, as individuals may drop out of school or the workforce to care for children. This can hinder women’s economic empowerment and contribute to a cycle of poverty, affecting not just the individuals involved but also their families and communities. Moreover, the healthcare system faces the challenge of allocating resources to manage the consequences of these pregnancies and abortions, diverting funds from other essential health services. This can result in a vicious cycle where the economy suffers due to decreased productivity and increased healthcare costs, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the healthcare system. Overall, the economic implications are profound, affecting both individual lives and the broader economic landscape in Nigeria.

How does the stigma surrounding sexual health issues in Nigeria affect economic participation, particularly of women?

The stigma surrounding sexual health issues in Nigeria significantly affects economic participation, especially for women. This stigma often results in a lack of open discussion about Sexology has helped me understand that sexuality is a complex and multifaceted aspect of human experience, encompassing not only biological factors but also psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual dimensions. It has broadened my understanding of the diversity of sexual orientations, gender identities, and sexual behaviors, and has helped me to appreciate the importance of open-mindedness, non-judgment, and respect for individual differences in sexual expression.

How do you manage the emotional toll that dealing with sensitive and sometimes challenging topics in your practice can have on you?

It’s important to prioritise self-care and have a strong support system in place to manage the emotional toll that can come with dealing with sensitive and challenging topics in practice. This might involve setting boundaries, taking breaks, and seeking guidance from mentors or colleagues. Remember, taking care of oneself is essential for one’s well-being and your ability to provide effective care to others.

What is the most important message or piece of advice you would offer to someone who is hesitant to seek help for sexual health concerns?

The most important message is that your sexual health matters. It’s okay to feel hesitant or embarrassed about seeking help, but your well-being is worth it. Remember, many healthcare providers specialise in sexual health and are there to support you without judgment. Taking care of your sexual health is a sign of self-care and can have a positive impact on your overall well-being.

How do you envision the field of sexology in the next 5 to 10 years and what role do you see yourself playing in the future?

The field of sexology is poised for exciting growth in the next 5-10 years, driven by advancements in technology, a growing emphasis on sexual health and well-being, and a broadening understanding of human sexuality. Here are some key trends I envision Integration of technology: Sextech is already a booming industry, and we can expect to see further integration of technology into sexology. This could include AI-powered tools for personalised sexual wellness plans, virtual reality experiences for couples therapy, and telemedicine platforms for remote sexual health consultations.

Focus on diversity and inclusion: The field is increasingly recognising the importance of inclusivity and is working to address the unique sexual health needs of diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and those from different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Emphasis on prevention and education: There will be a growing focus on sexual health education and prevention programs, aiming to reduce the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections, promote healthy sexual behaviors, and address issues like sexual dysfunction and body image concerns.

Interdisciplinary collaboration: Sexology is becoming increasingly interdisciplinary, with collaborations between researchers, clinicians, educators, and technologists to address complex issues related to human sexuality.

Destigmatisation of sexual health: Continued efforts to destigmatise conversations around sex and sexuality will create a more open and accepting environment for individuals to seek sexual health care and support.

What role does societal and cultural stigma around sex play in your practice?

Societal and cultural stigma around sex can significantly impact healthcare practices. Here’s how: Limited Open Communication: Stigma creates an environment where individuals feel ashamed or embarrassed to discuss sexual health concerns with healthcare providers. This can lead to underreporting of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), delayed diagnoses, and inadequate treatment.

Barriers to Care: Stigma can deter individuals from seeking essential sexual health services like contraception, STI testing, or preventive screenings. This is particularly true for marginalised groups who may face additional barriers due to discrimination.

Provider Bias: Healthcare providers may hold unconscious biases influenced by societal stigma. This can lead to discriminatory treatment, judgmental attitudes, and a lack of culturally sensitive care for patients.

Inadequate Healthcare Resources: Stigma can lead to underfunding and limited resources for sexual health services, particularly in areas with conservative or religious communities. This can result in inadequate access to care and prevention programmes.

Public Health Consequences: When individuals avoid seeking care due to stigma, it can contribute to the spread of STIs, unintended pregnancies, and other negative health outcomes.

Can you give an example of an innovative approach you have taken to improve workplace safety?

I usually use to develop an interactive and engaging safety training program that is accessible to all employees. This program can include: Personalised learning paths: I can tailor the training content to the specific needs and roles of each employee, ensuring that they receive the most relevant information.

Gamified training modules: I create interactive games and simulations that make learning about safety fun and engaging. This can help to improve employee retention of safety information.

Real-time feedback and support: I provide employees with real-time feedback on their performance in safety-related tasks. This can help them to identify and correct any unsafe behaviors.

Multilingual support: I usually provide safety training in multiple languages, ensuring that all employees can access the information they need to stay safe.

By using my language capabilities in this way, I can help to create a more effective and engaging safety training program that can help to reduce workplace accidents.

What technology or tools do you find most helpful in enhancing occupational health and safety progress?

Here are few of them I usually use Wearable Technology Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers: These devices can monitor heart rate, activity levels, and sleep patterns, helping identify potential health risks and fatigue. Smart Helmets and Safety Vests: Equipped with sensors, these can detect falls, collisions, and other hazards, triggering alerts and potentially even preventing accidents. Exoskeletons: These devices can augment human strength and endurance, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

Can you describe your path to becoming a lifestyle medicine physician? What motivated you to specialise in this field?

My journey as a lifestyle medicine physician began a few years ago when I made a profound realisation in my practice: the majority of medications prescribed in orthodox medicine are merely synthetic versions of the natural and organic compounds found in plants and fruits. This awakening led me to understand that not every ailment or disease requires drugs. In fact, most health issues can be effectively addressed through a significant change in lifestyle and the correction of nutritional deficiencies.

What truly ignited my passion for this path was my recognition, after a decade of patient care, that I had cultivated strong communication skills, compassion, and empathy. I soon realized that what my patients truly needed was a holistic approach grounded in evidence-based practices—one that prioritises prevention over mere treatment. This shift not only enhances their quality of life but also extends their life expectancy. It has been an extraordinary journey full of insights and revelations. I have countless personal experiences to share, and I look forward to the next opportunity to talk about them. I tell all my patients, embracing lifestyle medicine isn’t just a choice; it’s a movement towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.

What do you commonly treat using lifestyle intervention, and why do you focus on these areas?

As a board-certified lifestyle medicine physician, I am passionately committed to treating a spectrum of non-communicable chronic diseases and conditions through tailored lifestyle interventions. With my specialised training in Family Medicine, I ensure that patient care is delivered with the utmost competence, compassion, and commitment through the 5C’s: comprehensive, coordinated, and continuous care. This dedication to care is not just a short-term solution; it is a lifelong journey (cradle to grave) that emphasizes long-term health and well-being.

The conditions I address include:

Metabolic syndrome X, encompassing obesity and weight management, Type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. I assist patients in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through personalised nutrition and physical activity plans, alongside stress management and sleep optimisation.

Mental health and mood disorders. As a certified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, I guide my patients through life’s challenges, providing them with the tools they need to thrive.

Chronic pain and inflammation, where I help patients reconnect with their bodies to find relief and restoration.

Gut health and digestive disorders, which are crucial for overall well-being and vitality.

Cancer prevention and survivorship, ensuring that my patients have the strategies and support they need for a healthier life after diagnosis.

Autoimmune diseases, where I focus on lifestyle strategies that can significantly improve quality of life. The reason I focus on these areas is simple: lifestyle interventions can dramatically alter the trajectory of chronic diseases. By tackling the root causes of ailments rather than merely masking symptoms, lifestyle medicine paves the way for sustainable and long-lasting health benefits.

Moreover, my commitment to lifestyle medicine is rooted in my core values as a physician:

Empowering patients: I believe in empowering my patients to take charge of their health through education, self-awareness, and personal responsibility.

Addressing root causes: It is essential to confront the underlying causes of disease, paving the way for true healing.

Prevention over treatment: By prioritising prevention, lifestyle medicine not only helps reduce healthcare costs but also leads to improved health outcomes for patients.

Holistic approach: I consider the whole person—physical, emotional, social, and environmental—when crafting individualised treatment plans. Evidence-based practice: My approach is anchored in scientific evidence and clinical research, ensuring that the treatment plans I recommend are both effective and safe.

What specific tools or methods do you use to help patients set and track lifestyle goals?

As a lifestyle medicine physician, I am committed to empowering my patients to take charge of their health through effective goal-setting and tracking methods. Here’s how I can make a difference in your journey towards a healthier lifestyle: Lifestyle Assessment Questionnaires- By assessing your current habits, we can pinpoint specific areas for improvement tailored to you.

Goal-Setting Worksheets – I offer structured worksheets designed to help you establish SMART goals—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound—for meaningful lifestyle changes. Whether it’s enhancing your physical activity or optimising your nutrition, we’ve got this covered!

Food Diaries and Nutrition Tracking- I encourage you to maintain a food diary or utilize popular nutrition apps like MyFitnessPal or Lose It! Together, we can uncover patterns in your eating habits and illuminate pathways for improvement.

Physical Activity Tracking* – By incorporating tools like Fitbits or Apple Watches, or apps such as Stepz or MapMyFitness, you can easily monitor and set goals for your physical activity levels—making movement both rewarding and motivating!

Stress Management and Mindfulness Tools – Stress should never hold you back. I’ll teach you various stress management techniques, including deep breathing and mindfulness meditation, along with recommending apps like Headspace or Calm to enrich your experience.

Sleep Diaries and Tracking – Understanding your sleep patterns is vital. I will assist you in keeping a sleep diary or using apps like Sleep Cycle or Fitbit to monitor and enhance your sleep quality.

Mobile Health (mHealth) Apps – The future of health tracking is at your fingertips! Apps like Habitica or Streaks will not only help you set and track your health habits but also send you encouraging reminders to stay on track.

Regular Follow-Up and Accountability- Together, we will schedule consistent follow-up appointments to assess your progress, offer constructive feedback, and fine-tune your lifestyle plan to ensure you’re always moving in the right direction.

Furthermore, my approach includes:

Health Coaching- With personalised health coaching, I’ll be right by your side to help you identify and achieve your health goals, providing unwavering support and accountability every step of the way.

Electronic Health Record (EHR) Integration – Through my dedicated website (www.thecelebritydoctor.com), I utilise EHR systems that enable me to monitor your lifestyle habits and progress comprehensively, alongside secure communication through patient portals.

Utilising this arsenal of tools and methods, I am dedicated to helping you set and track your lifestyle goals effectively, ensuring you receive the encouragement and accountability necessary for lasting, sustainable changes.

What strategies do you use to promote long-term adherence to lifestyle changes especially given the challenges of modern day living?

As a lifestyle medicine physician, I passionately implement a variety of strategies designed to promote long-term adherence to lifestyle changes. Understanding the challenges of modern-day living, I firmly believe in the effectiveness of the following approaches:

Patient-Centered Approach – I collaborate deeply with my patients to uncover their unique values, goals, and motivations for making lifestyle changes. This personalised plan not only resonates with them but significantly increases the likelihood of adherence.

Small, Achievable Steps – I strongly advocate for starting with small, manageable steps towards their lifestyle goals. This method builds confidence and momentum, ensuring that they are empowered to continue progressing.

Gradual Progression – Emphasizing gradual progression rather than overwhelming drastic changes is key. This strategy fosters sustainability and minimises the risk of burnout, making the journey toward healthier living more enjoyable.

Accountability and Support – I provide regular follow-up appointments and strongly encourage patients to share their progress with friends and family. This creates a robust sense of accountability and support, serving as a powerful motivator for meaningful lifestyle changes.

Mindset Shifts- I work diligently with patients to identify and dismantle negative thought patterns and behaviors that impede their progress. By cultivating a positive and empowering mindset, we can sustain their motivation and commitment to lifestyle changes.

Lifestyle Habits Tracking – I advocate for the use of habit trackers or mobile apps to monitor lifestyle habits such as physical activity, nutrition, and sleep. This not only enhances awareness and accountability but also illuminates patterns and opportunities for improvement.

Incorporating Pleasure and Enjoyment – I encourage my patients to seamlessly integrate activities that bring them joy into their lifestyle changes. This alignment fosters a positive relationship with their new habits, significantly boosting motivation and adherence.

Addressing Underlying Barriers – Together, we identify and address the underlying barriers—like time constraints, lack of motivation, or insufficient support—that may hinder their progress. This realistic approach paves the way for increased adherence and sustainability.

Fostering a Sense of Community – I empower patients to connect with others who share similar lifestyle aspirations through online communities, support groups, or social media. This sense of community enhances accountability and dramatically increases motivation and adherence to lifestyle changes.

Celebrating successes – I fervently encourage patients to celebrate their successes, no matter how small they may seem. Recognizing these achievements fosters a strong sense of accomplishment and reignites motivation, supporting sustained adherence over time. By embracing these effective strategies, I have successfully guided patients through the challenges of modern-day living, enabling them to achieve lasting lifestyle changes that promote optimal health and well-being.

In your opinion what roles does patient empowerment plays in the success of lifestyle medicine intervention?

Patient empowerment plays a crucial role in the success of lifestyle medicine interventions. When patients are empowered, they take an active role in their health management, which leads to better adherence to lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and stress management. Empowered patients are more likely to set realistic health goals, make informed decisions, and engage in self-monitoring, all of which are vital for effective lifestyle medicine.

Moreover, patient empowerment promotes education and awareness, enabling individuals to understand the importance of lifestyle changes in managing chronic diseases and overall health. This knowledge can motivate patients to adopt healthier behaviors and sustain them long-term, which is essential for the success of any lifestyle intervention.

Additionally, when patients feel supported and involved in their treatment plans, it can enhance their relationship with healthcare providers. This collaborative approach fosters trust and communication, ensuring that interventions are tailored to meet individual needs and preferences, further increasing the likelihood of success.

Overall, patient empowerment not only enhances individual outcomes but also contributes to a more effective healthcare system by promoting preventative care and reducing the need for more intensive medical interventions.