LASG Extends Free Hypertension, Diabetes Screening Campaign By Two Weeks

… Residents Encouraged to Utilise Extension for Better Health

The Lagos State Government has extended its ongoing free hypertension and diabetes screening campaign, tagged: “Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers,” by two weeks, to now run until Sunday, 17th November 2024.

This extension was announced today by the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, who urged Lagos residents to take advantage of the added timeframe to undergo the critical health screenings, initially scheduled to conclude on 3rd November, the campaign will continue to provide screening services at over 330 designated sites including 30 General Hospitals and 300 Primary Health Centres across the state.

Speaking on the reason for the extension, Prof. Abayomi emphasised the importance of health screenings in combating the “silent killer” diseases of hypertension and diabetes, which contribute significantly to the disease burden in Nigeria. “By extending this campaign, we are encouraging more residents to come forward and ‘know their numbers’ so they can take proactive steps in controlling their blood pressure and blood sugar levels,” he said. 

He added that early detection and management of these conditions are vital to reducing the risk of serious complications, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.

He explained that the “Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers” campaign is part of the national ‘10 Million Project,’ an initiative by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum implemented through the Commissioners for Health Forum, aimed at screening 10 million Nigerians for hypertension and diabetes. “Launched on 28th October 2024, the campaign has already screened thousands of residents across Lagos State and Nigeria. The initiative underscores the Lagos State Government’s commitment to prioritising the health of its residents and preventing chronic diseases through early diagnosis and effective health management”, Abayomi said.

He disclosed that prominent government officials, including the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, and members of the Lagos State Executive Council, were among the first to lead by example, undergoing screenings as part of the campaign’s launch activities.

“At a special screening event held during an Executive Council meeting, blood pressure and blood sugar screenings were conducted by Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health for members of the State Executive Council. Additionally, the screening exercise extended to notable figures such as the Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and House of Representatives members, Honourable Babajimi Benson and Honourable Fuad Laguda. This widespread participation from the state’s top officials has underscored the importance of regular health checks in curbing the prevalence of hypertension and diabetes”, the Commissioner said.

He noted that with the extension, screenings will continue daily from 9 a.m. at 30 General Hospitals and 300 Primary Health Centres across all Local Government Areas in Lagos, adding that the designated sites are strategically located to ensure easy access for all residents, regardless of location, in a bid to maximise public participation and reach.

Prof. Abayomi stressed that hypertension and diabetes are leading causes of disability and death globally and emphasised the Ministry of Health’s commitment to creating a healthier Lagos through proactive initiatives. “We are working tirelessly to prevent avoidable hospitalizations and save lives. Knowing one’s blood pressure and blood sugar levels is the first step in managing these silent killers,” he explained.

Speaking in the same vein, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi also urged residents to leverage the extension and visit designated screening centres, pointing out that the campaign offers a vital opportunity for residents to assess their health status at no cost. “Hypertension and diabetes may not show early symptoms, which is why routine checks are essential for everyone, especially for those aged 40 and above or with a family history of these conditions,” she noted.

She further advised residents to adopt healthier lifestyles by incorporating regular exercise, balanced diets, and stress management into their daily routines. “Taking charge of your health is a commitment to a better future,” Dr. Ogunyemi added, highlighting that managing blood pressure and blood sugar can prevent long-term complications.

Ogunyemi extended appreciation to all healthcare professionals and partners involved in this campaign for their dedication to improving the health of Lagosians. She called on community leaders, religious organisations, and local influencers to help raise awareness and encourage participation in the extended screening exercise.