By Kehinde KOLAWOLE
The Lagos State Government has once again extended its free hypertension and diabetes screening campaign, “Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers.” Initially scheduled to conclude on November 3, 2024, and later extended, the initiative will now run until Sunday, November 24, 2024.
This second extension reflects the state’s commitment to ensuring more residents can access vital health screenings. The campaign aims to raise awareness about hypertension and diabetes, empowering Lagosians to take proactive control of their health through early detection and management.
According to a press statement signed today 18th November 2024 by the Director Public Affairs Tunbosun Ogunbanwo it states that by prolonging this life-saving initiative, the government continues to prioritize public health, urging residents to take advantage of the program before the new deadline.
The Lagos State Government has announced an extension of its free hypertension and diabetes screening campaign, “Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers,” to further benefit residents. Prof. Akin Abayomi, the Commissioner for Health, revealed the decision, citing an overwhelming public response.
“This extension ensures that more Lagosians can access this lifesaving initiative,” Prof. Abayomi stated. He highlighted the dangers of hypertension and diabetes, describing them as “silent killers,” and stressed the importance of early detection in preventing severe complications like heart disease, stroke and kidney failure.
To support this effort, over 330 screening sites, including 30 General Hospitals and 300 Primary Health Centres, will continue to provide free daily services from 9 a.m. across all Local Government Areas. The initiative underscores the government’s dedication to reducing the disease burden in Lagos, urging residents to seize the opportunity to prioritize their health before the new deadline of November 24, 2024.
The Lagos State Government’s free hypertension and diabetes screening campaign, “Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers,” has been extended to align with Nigeria’s national “10 Million Project,” which aims to screen 10 million citizens for these silent killers. Since its launch on October 28, 2024, thousands of Lagosians have benefited from the initiative, which has been praised for its proactive approach to preventive healthcare.
Prof. Akin Abayomi, Commissioner for Health, emphasized the government’s commitment to building a healthier Lagos. “This campaign demonstrates our dedication to preventive care and reflects our alignment with national health goals,” he said.
The campaign gained further momentum with the participation of key leaders, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, who underwent screenings themselves. Their involvement highlights the campaign’s significance and serves as a rallying call for residents to take advantage of the extended screenings, now available until November 24, 2024, at over 330 locations statewide.
Prof. Akin Abayomi, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, has called on religious organizations, community leaders, and social influencers to intensify awareness about the ongoing “Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers” campaign. Highlighting their pivotal role, he stated, “These leaders are key in motivating people to seize this opportunity. Together, we can prevent complications and save lives.”
The Commissioner urged Lagosians, particularly those aged 40 and above or with a family history of hypertension or diabetes, to utilize the extended free screening period. “This initiative is free, accessible, and crucial for early detection and prevention. We encourage everyone to visit the designated centers, get screened, and take charge of their health,” he advised.
With screenings available daily across 330 centers, including hospitals and primary health facilities, the government aims to ensure no resident is left behind in the fight against these silent killers.
To cap it all, the “Know Your Numbers, Control Your Numbers” campaign, now extended until November 24, 2024, continues to provide free hypertension and diabetes screenings to Lagos residents. Beyond the screenings, the initiative promotes healthier living by encouraging regular exercise, balanced diets, and proactive health management.
Residents are urged to leverage the campaign not only to understand their health status but also to adopt lifestyle changes that can prevent or manage these conditions. This holistic approach reflects the government’s commitment to fostering a healthier, more informed population in Lagos.
