As part of a national health promotion and awareness campaign spearheaded by the Nigeria Health Commissioners Forum (NHCF), aimed at combating the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases, the Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr Tomi Coker has announced the launch of Project 10 Million – Know Your Number, Control Your Number in the State.
According to the Commissioner, the initiative is part of a national health promotion and awareness campaign spearheaded by the Nigeria Health Commissioners Forum (NHCF), aimed at combating the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly hypertension and diabetes, across the Country.
Addressing the media at the Ministry Headquarters in Oke Mosan Abeokuta, Dr Coker said NCDs such as hypertension and diabetes are significant health challenges in Nigeria that contribute to approximately 27% of all annual deaths.
“The risk of dying from these conditions between the ages of 30 and 70 is estimated at 17% and this highlights the urgent need for comprehensive intervention.
She said “Project 10 Million, which is endorsed by the Nigeria Governors Forum and supported by Health Commissioners from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), will take place from October 28 to November 3, 2024.
“During this period, we aim to screen 10 million Nigerians for hypertension and diabetes, with a special focus on reaching underserved communities to ensure that vulnerable populations have equitable access to essential care.
“In Ogun State, we are proud to extend this initiative to all 236 wards across our 20 Local Government Areas. Screening will be accessible at all primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare facilities as well in churches, mosques, parks, markets throughout the state.
“Our goal is to ensure that every resident has the opportunity to know their numbers, take control of their health, and avert preventable non-communicable diseases, specifically diabetes and hypertension.
“This campaign is not only about screening; it is about saving lives through preventative care.
“Our objectives for Project 10 Million in Ogun State are clear:
- Screen a significant number of our residents for hypertension and diabetes during the campaign week.
- Provide immediate counselling and referrals for individuals with sub-optimal results.
- Link newly detected cases to treatment facilities for ongoing care.
- Increase public awareness about the risks and management of hypertension and diabetes.
- Enhance data collection on the prevalence of NCDs to inform health policies and planning.
- Support the creation of hypertension and diabetes registers in our state and across Nigeria as a whole.
“This initiative aligns with the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) compact signed by the governors with the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It reflects our shared commitment to improving health outcomes for all Nigerians.
“In Ogun State, this campaign will complement our ongoing efforts to safeguard the lives of our residents through preventative care. By working together, we can ensure a healthier future for our communities.
The Commissioner called on all citizens age 18 and above to take advantage of the opportunity by visiting health facilities or outreach site during the campaign period to get screened.
