Anambra begins free hypertension screening for residents

The Anambra State Government has commenced free hypertension screening services in all public health facilities across the state as measures to strengthen preventive healthcare and promote early detection of non-communicable diseases.

The wife of the state governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, who disclosed this in Awka, on Friday, urged residents to take advantage of this opportunity, adding that hypertension is currently one of the commonest and deadliest health conditions in the society.

She added that the initiative reflects the state government’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.

She said, “I am pleased to share that Anambra State Government has commenced free hypertension screening services across all government-owned health facilities, including our 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.

“I encourage every adult to take advantage of this opportunity. Hypertension is currently one of the commonest and deadliest health conditions in our society.

“Visit the nearest public health facility, get screened, know your blood pressure status, and take the right steps towards a healthier and happier life.”

She pointed out that good health remains one of the greatest investments any government can make for it’s citizens urging the people to continue to embrace healthy living.

“Good health remains one of the greatest investments we can make in ourselves and our families. Together, let’s continue to embrace healthy living, preventive healthcare, and a culture of wellness. Your health matters. Know your numbers today,” she added.

Speaking earlier, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, said the programme would be available in all Primary Healthcare Centres, Comprehensive Health Centres and General Hospitals across the state.

Obidike said medical officers, primary healthcare coordinators and heads of public health facilities had been directed to ensure full compliance to guarantee the success of the programme.

“The initiative is to ensure residents have easy access to regular blood pressure checks and appropriate medical advice. Hypertension is a major public health challenge.

“The condition is often referred to as a ‘silent killer’ because it could develop without noticeable symptoms while increasing the risk of serious health complications,” he added.

“We urged residents to take advantage of the free screening services by visiting the nearest public health facility to ascertain their blood pressure status.

“Early detection remains one of the most effective ways of preventing and managing hypertension-related complications,” he added.