Data by the Lagos State government has revealed that 8.6 million residents of the state have high blood pressure (HBP), representing 30 percent of the population, according to available data.
It also said that available records show that approximately 10 million people die from hypertension each year.
State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, disclosed this during a media briefing on the statewide screening and public health enlightenment campaign organized by the Nigerian Governors’ Forum.
Abayomi was with the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, at the event.
The campaign, titled “Know Your Numbers and Control Your Numbers”, is focused on raising awareness about hypertension and diabetes in Lagos State.
Abayomi added that there are also 3.48 million residents living with obesity, while another 1.73 million have diabetes.
He stressed the importance of regular check-ups and testing, as hypertension and diabetes can lead to severe health issues such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure.
The commissioner stated that the campaign was an initiative of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum aimed at raising awareness and providing free screenings for these two critical diseases.
He said the government is targeting 800,000 residents for a week-long free screening exercise commencing this week.
He explained that the nationwide target is to screen 10 million Nigerians for hypertension and diabetes, with Lagos State aiming to screen 800,000 residents.
The government intends to reach out to over 300 primary health centers and 30 general hospitals in the state.