10 million Nigerians slated for hypertension, diabetes tests

The Nigerian Health Commissioners Forum has launched a project to screen 10 million Nigerians for hypertension and diabetes.

The NHCF Chairman, Dr Oyebanji Filani, who is the Ekiti State Health Commissioner, made this known in a statement on Monday.

The project, tagged, “Project 10 Million – Know Your Number, Control Your Number”, according to Filani, targeted to combat the prevalence of NCDs, particularly hypertension and diabetes in the country.

He said the body launched a sub-national health promotion to sensitise Nigerians that non-communicable diseases are serious health challenges requiring urgent intervention.

Under the project, Filani stated that priority attention would be given to underserved communities and vulnerable populations.

The NHCF chairman said, “NCDs, such as hypertension and diabetes, pose a serious health challenge, contributing to approximately 27 per cent of all annual deaths in Nigeria.

“The likelihood of dying from these conditions between the ages of 30 and 70 is estimated at 17 per cent, underscoring the urgent need for intervention.”

“The campaign will prioritize underserved communities, ensuring that vulnerable populations have equitable access to essential care. Citizens can visit any public health service provider or outreach site to get screened.

“The Know Your Number, Control Your Number campaign aligns with the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative as led by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate.

“It is also consistent with the Sector-Wide Approach compact signed with the President reflecting the shared commitment to improving health outcomes for all Nigerians.

“Governors’ spouses and other stakeholders at the sub-national level will lend their voices to support this cause, amplifying efforts to promote healthier outcomes for millions of Nigerians.”

The NHCF chairman listed the objectives of the project to include, “screening of 10 million Nigerians for hypertension and diabetes during the campaign week, provision of immediate counselling, referrals for individuals with sub-optimal results and linking newly detected cases to treatment facilities for ongoing care.”

Filani added, “We are increasing public awareness about hypertension and diabetes, improving data collection on the prevalence of NCDs to inform health policies and planning, and supporting the creation of hypertension and diabetes registers across states.

“This synchronized sub-national campaign represents a critical milestone in the fight against NCDs in Nigeria, ensuring a healthier future for millions of Nigerians.

“With the combined efforts of state health leadership, the success of this campaign further strengthens the groundwork for future health interventions aimed at reducing the burden of hypertension and diabetes in Nigeria.”