2023 World Hypertension Day: Ondo State Ministry of Health Takes Campaign to Isolo Community

In its continued effort to boost the health of the people by providing them with the right information as well as access to free health services, the Ondo State Ministry of Health organized free blood screening and blood sugar test for the people of Isolo community in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

The event which is part of activities marking 2023 World Hypertension Day in the state took place at the Isolo Primary Health Centre
The Permanent Secretary, Ondo State Ministry of Health, Pharm. Mrs. Folukemi Aladenola affirmed that the gesture was in line with the commitment of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu through the REDEEMED Agenda to ensure healthy living for the citizens.

Pharm. Aladenola who said the Governor gave approval by committing funds for the laudable project, noted further that prevention is better and cheaper than cure and that early detection saves lives.

According to her, Hypertension and Diabetes are closely related Non-communicable diseases which have not only rendered their victims incapacitated with resultant low productivity but havẹ also sent them to their early graves.

The Permanent Secretary who was represented by the Director Nursing Services of the Ministry of Health, Dr (Mrs) Alice Ogundele particularly used the opportunity to admonish the market men, women and members of the Hausa community as well as residents to troop out to check their health status just as she restated the need for them to participate actively in the interactive and counselling sessions.

Giving a health talk on Hypertension and Diabetes, Director Public Health Dr. Stephen Fagbemi spoke about the causes of high blood pressure as well as diabetes stressing that those who are above 45 years must regularly check their health status.

Dr. Fagbemi identified some of the symptoms of these diseases just as he cautioned that high blood pressure could ultimately lead to kidney failure if not properly checked.

He also used the opportunity to charge the people to go for regular check up and seek medical help stressing that with a well managed diet, exercise and proper medication, an individual could survive the scourge of hypertension and Diabetes.

Some of the health services provided the people included health talk, blood pressure measurement, blood sugar measurement, Body Mass Index assessment and counselling; all at no cost.

Also in attendance included other top ministry officers, representatives of World Health Organisation and Ondo State Primary Health Care Board among others.

Some of the beneficiaries who spoke with newsmen shortly after their screening applauded the state government for the initiative and urged not to relent.