Lagos: The Lagos State Government has announced the extension of its free hypertension and diabetes screening campaign, ‘Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers,’ by an additional two weeks, now scheduled to run until Sunday, 17th November 2024. This decision aims to encourage more residents to participate in the health screenings, which were initially set to conclude on 3rd November. The campaign will continue to offer screening services at over 330 designated sites, including 30 General Hospitals and 300 Primary Health Centres across Lagos State.
According to Voice of Nigeria, the extension was revealed by the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, who highlighted the critical role of health screenings in addressing the ‘silent killer’ diseases of hypertension and diabetes, which significantly impact Nigeria’s health landscape. Prof. Abayomi emphasized that the campaign encourages residents to ‘know their numbers’ to proactively manage their blood pressure and blood sugar levels, which is
crucial for early detection and reducing the risk of serious health complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
The ‘Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers’ initiative is part of the national ’10 Million Project,’ an effort by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and implemented through the Commissioners for Health Forum, targeting the screening of 10 million Nigerians. Launched on 28th October 2024, the campaign has already screened thousands across Lagos and Nigeria, showcasing the Lagos State Government’s commitment to preventing chronic diseases through early diagnosis and health management.
Prominent government figures, including the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, and other members of the Lagos State Executive Council, participated in the campaign’s launch. A special screening was held during an Executive Council meeting, conducted by Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health. The campai
gn also reached notable figures such as the Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and members of the House of Representatives, emphasizing the importance of regular health checks.
With the campaign’s extension, screenings will be available daily from 9 a.m. at designated General Hospitals and Primary Health Centres across all Local Government Areas in Lagos. Prof. Abayomi stated that these sites are strategically located to ensure accessibility for all residents, aiming to maximize public participation.
He further noted that hypertension and diabetes are leading causes of disability and death globally, and stressed the Ministry of Health’s commitment to creating a healthier Lagos through proactive initiatives. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and blood sugar levels is a vital step in managing these conditions.
Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, encouraged residents to take advantage of the extended campaign for free heal
th assessments. She highlighted the importance of routine checks, especially for those over 40 or with a family history of these conditions. Dr. Ogunyemi also urged residents to adopt healthier lifestyles, including regular exercise and balanced diets.
Ogunyemi expressed gratitude to healthcare professionals and partners for their dedication to improving Lagosians’ health and called on community leaders, religious organizations, and local influencers to promote awareness and participation in the campaign.