The Anambra State Government has commenced free hypertension screening services across government-owned health facilities across the state as part of efforts to promote preventive healthcare and ensure the early detection of non-communicable diseases.
The wife of the Governor and Founder/Chief Executive Officer of the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo initiative, Nonye Soludo, announced the programme in Awka on Friday and urged residents to take advantage of the free screening services.
She said the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to improving access to quality healthcare and reducing the burden of preventable diseases through early diagnosis and treatment.
“I am pleased to announce that the Anambra State Government has commenced free hypertension screening services across all government-owned health facilities, including Primary Health Centres and General Hospitals statewide
“This initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to building a healthier Anambra, where quality healthcare is accessible to everyone and preventable health conditions are detected before they become life-threatening,” the Founder/CEO stated.
Describing hypertension as one of the most prevalent and deadly health conditions affecting Nigerians, Soludo encouraged adults across the state to undergo routine blood pressure checks and take proactive steps to protect their health.
“Hypertension is currently one of the most common and deadliest health conditions in our society. I encourage every adult to visit the nearest public health facility, get screened, know their blood pressure status, and take the right steps towards a healthier and happier life
“Good health remains one of the greatest investments we can make in ourselves and our families. Together, let us continue to promote healthy living, preventive healthcare and a culture of wellness,” she stressed.
Earlier, the State Commissioner for Health, Afam Obidike, said the programme would be implemented across all Primary Healthcare Centres, Comprehensive Health Centres and General Hospitals in the state.
He said medical officers, primary healthcare coordinators and heads of public health facilities had been directed to ensure full compliance with the initiative.
“The objective is to ensure that residents have easy access to regular blood pressure checks and appropriate medical advice. Hypertension remains a major public health challenge,” he warned.
Obidike described hypertension as a “silent killer” that often develops without noticeable symptoms while significantly increasing the risk of severe health complications, including heart disease, stroke and kidney failure.
