Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the Wife of the Governor of Lagos State, alongside Princess Surah Animashaun, the Chairman of the Epe Local Government Area, is set to launch a vital two-day tuberculosis (TB) screening campaign in Epe. The aim of this initiative is to address the critical issue of TB awareness which has been a persistent challenge within the local community, and by extension, the wider regions of Lagos State and Nigeria. During a recent press conference at the Secretariat Chamber in Epe, Princess Animashaun emphasized the urgent need for such campaigns, noting that a lack of awareness has consistently resulted in health risks for many residents.
The screening program, themed “End TB, Stop TB,” promises an array of health services aimed at promoting the wellbeing of the local population. The activities will take place at the Epe Local Government Primary Healthcare Centre and will include free blood pressure checks, blood sugar screenings, X-rays, and TB screenings. Such comprehensive healthcare services are designed to encourage residents to take proactive steps in safeguarding their health and to facilitate the detection and management of tuberculosis and other significant health issues, including hypertension.
In her address, Animashaun urged community members to participate in the screening, highlighting the importance of community involvement in this health initiative. With the campaign, she aims to eliminate the threat of tuberculosis by improving both awareness and access to essential health services in the local area. By providing free health screenings, she hopes to eliminate barriers that might render individuals hesitant to seek medical assistance and to empower them to take charge of their health through informed decisions.
Moreover, the chairman conveyed the administration’s commitment to prioritizing health issues, especially in combating tuberculosis. She pointed out that both TB and other potentially preventable diseases continue to flourish mainly due to inadequate awareness and access to healthcare. The screening initiative is not just focused on identifying existing cases but also on educating residents about how they can protect themselves and their loved ones from TB and other related illnesses.
Animashaun expressed her concern about the increasing rates of tuberculosis and high blood pressure within Nigeria, which pose serious public health challenges. She underscored the significance of the screening program as part of the broader effort to enhance health outcomes and quality of life in Epe. By ensuring that residents have access to preventive measures and treatment options, the campaign aims to foster a healthier community where individuals feel supported in their healthcare journeys.
In conclusion, the TB screening campaign spearheaded by Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu and Princess Surah Animashaun is a commendable effort to combat the rising threat of tuberculosis within Epe. The initiative not only seeks to provide immediate health services but also strives to promote greater awareness about tuberculosis and its management. By encouraging community participation and emphasizing the availability of quality healthcare, this campaign embodies a critical step in addressing the public health crises facing Nigeria, ultimately working towards the eradication of TB and improving overall health standards among its residents.
