The Ogun State government is set to screen 350,000 residents across its 20 Local Government Areas to address the rising incidence of deaths from hypertension and diabetes.
The initiative, according to the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, is in line with “Project 10 Million – Know Your Number, Control Your Number,” initiated by health commissioners from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which was endorsed by the Nigeria Governors Forum. It is set to run from October 28 to November 3, 2024.
Dr. Coker, who made this announcement during a press conference in Abeokuta at the weekend, said the initiative is the country’s response to the urgent need for action to curb the growing prevalence of hypertension and diabetes among Nigerians.
She revealed that screening facilities will be made available in churches, mosques, parks, markets, and healthcare centers in all 236 wards in the state, noting that special attention would be given to reaching underserved communities.
“Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly hypertension and diabetes, contribute to approximately 27% of all annual deaths in Nigeria. The risk of dying from these conditions between the ages of 30 and 70 stands at 17%. This underscores the necessity of a comprehensive intervention,” Dr. Coker stated.
The commissioner further disclosed that, apart from screenings, the initiative will include immediate counseling and referrals for individuals with high-risk results, linking them to treatment facilities for continued care.
She added that the campaign also aims to enhance public awareness around NCDs, increase data collection to inform health policies, and support the creation of hypertension and diabetes registers in Ogun State and across Nigeria.
“Our goal is to ensure that every resident has the opportunity to know their numbers, take control of their health, and prevent these non-communicable diseases.
“This initiative aligns with the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and the Sector-Wide Approach compact signed by state governors and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It represents a national commitment to improving health outcomes across Nigeria,” Dr. Coker explained.
The commissioner urged residents aged 18 and above to participate by visiting any healthcare facility or outreach location during the campaign week, noting that the campaign would go a long way in saving lives through preventive care.
