According to new data from the Lagos State government, approximately 13.8 million Lagosians are living with hypertension, diabetes and obesity.

Hypertension affects 8.67 million people, and more than 6 million are unaware.

Obesity affects 3.48 million people and diabetes affects 1.73 million people; half of them are unaware and undiagnosed.

To combat these silent killers, the Nigerian Governors Forum has launched a free statewide screening program. The Federal Ministry of Health also aims to screen 10 million Nigerians for diabetes and hypertension from October 28 to November 3.

Understanding silent killers

State Commissioner for Health Prof. Akin Abayomi, in a presentation on Friday, said the campaign tagged “Know Your Numbers, Check Your Numbers” will screen 800,000 Lagosians within a week.

• Abayomi emphasized the seriousness of diabetes, obesity and hypertension, which he called “silent killers.” These conditions often develop without noticeable symptoms and silently damage vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, and eyes. “Although they may seem benign at first glance, they can lead to serious health problems.” he warned.
• He said this campaign represents a strong effort to combat hypertension and diabetes, which often go undiagnosed until serious complications arise. “I called on citizens to actively participate in the campaign to understand and manage their health.”

High prevalence rates

In his presentation, Prof. Abayomi explained that a significant portion of the city’s 30 million population lives with hypertension, diabetes and obesity, but many are unaware of these grave conditions.

• “The prevalence of hypertension is 30%, with approximately 8.67 million people affected by the condition, and alarmingly 70% of them are unaware of their condition.
• “Hypertension is the leading cause of heart disease, strokes and kidney failure, making this lack of awareness particularly dangerous.” he stated.
• Obesity, a major cause of both hypertension and diabetes, affects 3.48 million Lagosians (about 12% of the population).

Prof. Abayomi stated that sedentary lifestyles and the increase in poor eating habits and obesity increase the risk of life-threatening diseases and are factors that aggravate the situation.

Diabetes risk and symptoms

Diabetes is another pressing health problem with a prevalence rate of 6% among Lagosians, accounting for 1.73 million residents. Surprisingly, approximately 50% of these individuals are unaware of their condition.

• Abayomi warned that untreated diabetes can lead to serious complications such as blindness and cardiovascular diseases.

He listed common symptoms of diabetes, such as constant thirst, frequent urination, fatigue and slow-healing wounds. Hypertension often goes unnoticed until it manifests itself with symptoms such as headache, dizziness, or chest pain. “These silent killers can lead to critical health crises if left unchecked.” he warned.

In a bid to promote accessible healthcare, the Lagos State Government, through the Ilera Eco Health Insurance Scheme, offers annual hypertension and diabetes check-ups to subscribers as part of the standard premium package.

“We aim to remove obstacles to regular health checks” Prof. Abayomi emphasized that early diagnosis and lifestyle changes can reduce long-term health problems.

During the campaign week, Lagosians are invited to visit any of the 300 primary health centers and 30 general hospitals in the state for free screenings. Tests for blood pressure, blood sugar and BMI calculations will be provided, helping citizens better understand and manage their health.

Recently, in August 2024, 14 African countries, including Nigeria, committed over $45 million during the World Health Organization WHO’s first Investment Round to generate sustainable financing for key health initiatives that include combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension. diabetes and obesity.

Health experts have emphasized the importance of both medical check-ups and lifestyle changes in combating these silent killers. “It is very important to exercise, reduce salt intake, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Weight loss can also significantly lower blood pressure. “Consistent medication use is very important to prevent complications in people diagnosed with hypertension.”

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