Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The Ekiti State government has embarked on an ambitious health initiative, targeting 200,000 residents for free screening for hypertension and diabetes.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji announced the program, which is part of the Federal Government’s “Project 10 Million – Know Your Number, Control Your Number” campaign.
The state has set up 161 screening centers across the state, operational from October 28 to November 3, 2024.
According to Oyebanji, represented by Deputy Governor Mrs. Monisade Afuye at the campaign flag-off, the initiative aims to address the alarming 70% chance of dying from hypertension and diabetes between ages 30 and 70 in Nigeria.
Many Nigerians are unaware of their status, making these conditions silent threats to their health.
The “Project 10 million” initiative combines with Ekiti’s innovative state intervention to increase demand for primary healthcare services, crucial for achieving Universal Health Coverage.
Oyebanji expressed concerns about the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases due to lifestyle changes, accounting for 27% of deaths in the country.
Through the “Ilera Wa” initiative, the state government has expanded free healthcare services, including ante-natal care, delivery, post-delivery care, and immunization for pregnant women and children.
The governor said, “There is a 70 per cent chance of dying from hypertension and diabetes between the ages of 30 and 70 years in Nigeria. Despite these alarming statistics, a lot of people are not aware of their status as far as these health conditions are concerned, making them silent threats to their health and well-being.
“We hope to conduct free screening for about 200,000 people in Ekiti State for hypertension and diabetes within the weeklong campaign in 161 screening centres across the state from Monday, October 28, to Sunday, November 3, 2024, with a focus on adults from 18 years.
“Ekiti is combining the ‘Project 10 million’ initiative with an innovative state intervention to rapidly increase the demand for primary healthcare services in Ekiti State, which is key to achieving Universal Health Coverage for the people.”
State Health Commissioner Dr. Oyebanji Filani emphasized the importance of the free screening to tackle hypertension and diabetes. The program will extend to traditional rulers’ palaces, schools, markets, and faith-based institutions, ensuring accessibility for all citizens.
The campaign’s success relies on reaching as many people as possible, identifying those affected, and controlling the spread of these diseases.
