FCTA to screen 250,000 residents for hypertension, diabetes

The Federal Capital Territory Authority has planned to screen 250,000 residents freely for hypertension and diabetes to reduce the prevalence of Non-communicable Diseases.

The FCTA, in a statement on Monday signed by Bola Ajao, the Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Mandate Secretary for FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, noted that the screening exercise is scheduled to take place from October 30-November 6, 2024

Nigeria Health Commissioners Forum last week launched an initiative to screen 10 million Nigerians for hypertension and diabetes.

The initiative, tagged “Project 10 million -Know your number, control your number” which is taking place from October 28 to November 3, 2024, is aimed at combating the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases, particularly hypertension and diabetes, in Nigeria.

According to the commissioners, NCDs such as hypertension and diabetes pose a serious health challenge, contributing to approximately 27 per cent of all annual deaths in Nigeria.

They said 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 exercise is supported by the Nigerian Governors’ Forum and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

Fasawe stated that the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, encourages all residents to participate in the essential free health screenings.

“The FCTA is fully prepared for this initiative and has partnered with key stakeholders to reduce the prevalence of NCDs,” the statement read partly.

Fasawe emphasised the timeliness of the screening exercise, noting that it targets over 250,000 residents of the capital city.

She urged residents to take advantage of the opportunity, allowing health workers to check their blood pressure and blood sugar levels, as early detection can make these conditions more manageable.

“The programme will reach over 200 communities across the FCT, with health workers travelling throughout Abuja to ensure accessibility, particularly, to underserved communities to ensure that vulnerable populations have equitable access to essential care. General hospitals, primary health centres, mosques, churches, markets, garages, and parks will be included to maximize reach and convenience.

“The public is assured that the exercise is safe and harmless, therefore any severe cases identified, referrals will be made to government hospitals, with medications provided free-of-charge to ease any financial burden on patients.

The exercise will continue across the FCT from October 30 to November 6, 2024,” the statement added.