Oyo targets 300,000 for hypertension, diabetes screening

The Oyo State government will screen 347,304 individuals as “Project 10 Million Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers” commences in Ibadan, the state capital.

“Project 10 Million” is a nationwide initiative to screen 10 million Nigerians for hypertension and diabetes across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory within seven days in October.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, stated this on Thursday at the unveiling of the project at the Governor’s Office.

Ajetunmobi said the project aimed at promoting early detection, prevention, and control of cardiometabolic diseases, using the slogan “Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers.”

She added, “Knowing your vital health metrics empowers you to take timely actions and make the right decision concerning your health. Controlling them prevents complications that may arise from ignorance or neglect.”

The commissioner said the screening would include blood pressure and blood sugar tests to detect hypertension and diabetes, alongside other anthropometric measurements about the heart, blood vessels and general body metabolism processes.

”The Nigerian Health Commissioners’ Forum is initiating the project and executing it in partnership with professional bodies, developmental agencies, and donors.

“Project 10 Million will utilise a team of trained healthcare workers who will visit various communities within each state.

”They will set up temporary screening stations at designated locations, making the screening accessible to the community,” she said.

The commissioner added that anyone 18 years and above would be eligible for the free screening.

”This means that you do not have to make any payment for the registration and other services accessed during the screening exercise,” the commissioner said.

Ajetumobi said participants would receive their test results and counselling on the spot.

The commissioner said those with abnormal results would receive care or be referred to nearby government-owned health facilities for further evaluation, treatment and follow-up care.