KEY POINTS

• Free screenings are available at hospitals and health centres statewide.
• The campaign aims to reduce the risk of heart and kidney complications.
• Residents are urged to “know their numbers” for better health management.

Lagos State’s free diabetes and hypertension screening campaign has been extended by two weeks, ending on Sunday, November 17, 2024, according to Commissioner for Health Akin Abayomi.

Free screenings are extended until November 17, 2024

Residents of Lagos were asked by Abayomi to utilize the extension by getting the screenings that are offered at all general hospitals and primary health centres throughout the state.

He underlined the need for health screenings in the fight against diabetes and hypertension, two conditions that greatly increase the disease burden in Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, he added, “By expanding this campaign, we are motivating more residents to ‘know their numbers’ and take proactive measures to control their blood pressure and blood sugar levels.”

To ensure to lower risk of serious complications including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure, early detection and management are important, Abayomi continued. He clarified that the “Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers” campaign is a component of a nationwide screening program for diabetes and hypertension that is being carried out by the Commissioners for Health Forum on behalf of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.

Thousands already screened across Lagos and Nigeria

According to Businessday, since its launch on October 28, 2024, the initiative has examined thousands of people throughout Nigeria and Lagos State, according to Abayomi. “This program demonstrates the Lagos State government’s dedication to putting citizens’ health first and preventing chronic illnesses through early detection and efficient treatment.”

Abayomi added that the screenings were attended by state executive council members, Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat.

Screenings will resume every day at 9 a.m. with the extension, Abayomi stated, adding that specific locations were chosen to provide convenient access for all locals.

Abayomi’s statement was echoed by Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Advisor to the Governor on Health, who urged citizens to take advantage of the program, which provides a vital chance to evaluate their health for free. According to her, “routine checks are essential, especially for those over 40 or with a family history of these conditions, as hypertension and diabetes often don’t show early symptoms.” “A better future is a commitment to taking control of your health.”