She had always considered herself healthy until a recent diagnosis of hypertension changed her perspective.
“I felt perfectly fine but chose to participate in the screening because it was free and conveniently available,” she recalled. Theresa learned about the free screening from a neighbor and decided to take part.
She is among more than 1,000 residents of Kaduna state who benefited from a recent health screening initiative launched as part of the Project 10 Million campaign, which promotes the theme ‘Know your numbers, control your numbers’ on the project's inaugural day.
This campaign, sponsored by the Nigeria Governors Forum in collaboration with the World Health Organization, aims to motivate citizens to utilize free screenings to monitor and manage their health effectively.
As part of this initiative, state health ministries are tasked with screening all adults aged 18 and older to assess their health status.
The screening exercise, which took place from October 28 to November 3 across various states, focused on hypertension and diabetes—two prevalent non-communicable diseases often referred to as silent killers—along with other infectious diseases. In states such as Nasarawa, screenings also included tests for hepatitis B and C.
In Kaduna, Theresa expressed her gratitude for the chance to participate in this initiative.
With a blood pressure reading of 100/150 mmHg, she was referred to the Primary Health Center in Zakari Isa, where she enrolled in the state’s contributory health scheme.
“I am grateful to the Kaduna State government, WHO, and all partners for this initiative. I will encourage others to get screened to know their numbers.” After counselling from a healthcare worker at the screening post, Theresa promised to adjust their lifestyle, reduce salt intake, and exercise more to control her blood pressure.
Raising Awareness of Two Silent Killer Diseases
Diabetes and hypertension rank among the most common non-communicable diseases (NCDs) globally, often referred to as "silent killers" due to their insidious long-term health impacts and the tendency for individuals to remain undiagnosed.
These conditions fall under the NCD category as they arise from a combination of lifestyle choices, genetic predispositions, and environmental influences, developing gradually over time. Unlike infectious diseases that can be transmitted between individuals, NCDs such as hypertension and diabetes necessitate ongoing treatment and lifestyle adjustments rather than a singular cure. In Nigeria, these diseases contribute to 27 percent of annual fatalities.
Despite these concerning figures, a significant number of individuals remain unaware of their health status regarding these conditions.
Collaborative Efforts to Address NCDs
In Kaduna, Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Subuwa Balarabe launched an initiative encouraging residents to utilize free testing services to assess their health conditions.
She stated, “The high incidence of NCDs in Nigeria underscores the necessity for a public health strategy centered on early detection and preventive measures. This initiative demonstrates our government’s commitment to protecting the health and welfare of our citizens.”
Governor Uba Sani’s administration has taken proactive steps to enhance the health of Kaduna’s populace. “Our objective is to guarantee that every citizen has access to vital health services,” the Governor remarked. “We appreciate the support from WHO and other partners in facilitating this initiative.”
Dr. Bello, the WHO Kaduna State Coordinator, highlighted the significance of such programs. “The WHO is dedicated to assisting the Kaduna State Government in its fight against NCDs. This screening initiative is a vital component of our strategy to enhance public health outcomes,” he noted. “Early detection and management are essential to avert the serious repercussions of these diseases.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) played a crucial role in assisting the state by offering extensive technical support throughout both the planning and implementation stages of the project. This assistance encompassed expert advice on strategic frameworks, operational logistics, data management systems, and best practices to facilitate a successful rollout. The partnership between WHO and the state government was essential in developing an initiative that is both sustainable and impactful.
Changing Lifestyle
In terms of lifestyle changes, Theresa's experience highlights the significance of accessible healthcare initiatives and the necessity of regular health check-ups.
The screening served as a pivotal moment for her, prompting her to commit to substantial lifestyle modifications, such as embracing a healthier diet and incorporating regular physical activity. “I am thankful for the screening program,” she expressed. “It has empowered me to take charge of my health and be present for my children.”