IN a proactive effort to combat tuberculosis (TB), hypertension, diabetes, and other health-related issues, the Igando-Ikotun Local Council Development Area (LCDA), under the leadership of the Executive Chairman, Comr. Lasisi Ayinde Akinsanya has flagged off a ‘Joint Action against End TB’ health screening exercise in the council area.
The three-day free health screening exercise, which kicked off at the Igando Market on November 22, 2024, will also take place at Ikotun and Obadore markets soon.
The event provided vital health services to residents, including free blood pressure checks, blood sugar screening, chest X-rays, and TB screening.
In her remarks, the wife of the council Chairman, Alhaja Hafsat Akinsanya, emphasised the importance of community health and the Local Government’s commitment to improving access to healthcare for all residents.
While appreciating the Lagos State First Lady, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu for the initiative, she urged the council residents to take full advantage of the services provided.
“This initiative is part of the State Government’s ongoing efforts to address pressing health issues in our community. We want to make sure that every resident is aware of their health status and has access to the necessary treatments. TB is a serious public health issue, and we are here to help prevent its spread,” she stated.
Meanwhile, the council’s Supervisor for Health, Hon. Nojeem Aremu, informed the council residents that TB treatment is free in all hospitals and Primary Health Centres (PHC) across the LCDA and Lagos State in general, urging anyone diagnosed with TB during the screening exercise to take full advantage of the State and Local Governments free health services.
“Our Government is committed to providing free health treatment to all residents, so there is no excuse for not seeking accurate health care,” he posited.
In her welcome speech, the LCDA Medical Officer of Health (MOH), Dr Anthonia Uti-Momah, stressed the importance of regular blood pressure checks and visiting the hospital at the first sign of any health concerns, “Early detection is key,” she said.
“Hypertension and other conditions can often go unnoticed, but they can lead to severe health issues if left untreated,” said Uti-Momah.
In their different remarks, other health professionals at the event; Apex Nurse, Deputy Director of Nursing, Ajayi Oluremi, Apex Community Health Officer (CHO), Mrs Olaiya, and Tuberculosis and Leprosy Supervisor(TBLS), Mrs Grace Kushalu, among others explained the risks of undiagnosed diabetes, hypertension and Tuberculosis while encouraging everyone to check their health status regularly.
The event was widely attended by community members, many of whom expressed gratitude for the free health screenings.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Ayeni, shared her experience: “I’m so glad, I came. I had no idea that I had high blood pressure, but now I can start managing it before it becomes a bigger problem. Thank you to the LCDA for this wonderful initiative.”
Another resident, Mr Odunayo Kazeem, praised the initiative: “This is a great service for the community. I got a full health checkup today, and I feel more empowered to take care of my health.”
The event also served as an important reminder to the residents of Igando-Ikotun LCDA that taking preventative measures and staying informed about their health are key steps in ensuring a healthier future for the community.
