Gwagwalada: The Chairman, Board of Management, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH), Dr. Ikechukwu Odikpo, has reiterated the need for constant health checks to avoid sudden death. Odikpo made this statement during the commissioning of the Clinical Arm of the Cardiovascular Research Centre and the Pharmacy Mini Production Unit at UATH.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Odikpo highlighted that a significant number of recent sudden deaths are related to cardiovascular issues. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the body through proper care, follow-up, investigation, and screening. He announced an upcoming initiative called ‘Conquer Sudden Deaths’ aimed at educating the public on cardiovascular health.
Odikpo also described the commissioning of the pharmacy mini production unit as a significant achievement that will enhance the hospital’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). He expressed gratitude for the support received from the government, allowing the hospital to attract investors and improve its systems.
The Acting Chief Medical Director (CMD), Assoc. Prof. Bob Ukonu, noted that the cardiovascular centre would contribute to improving healthcare indices in Nigeria by generating and analyzing data to inform health policies. He added that the centre, completed in three months, would address cardiovascular issues affecting Nigerians.
Ukonu also mentioned that the pharmacy mini production unit would reduce the cost of pharmaceutical products for patients and increase the hospital’s IGR, while also reducing government spending on contracts. The renovation of the unit cost less than N30 million, while the cardiovascular centre required hundreds of millions.
Josephine Abiri, Head of Department of Pharmacy, stated that the upgraded pharmacy mini production unit would enhance product availability and reduce costs for the hospital. She expressed plans to commercialize the products, which include bleach, paracetamol, and hand wash, to boost the IGR.
Prof. Dike Ojji, Centre Director, emphasized the importance of research tailored to Nigeria’s specific environment, asserting that cardiovascular issues require local research efforts. Collaborations are planned with various partners to advance the centre’s mission.