…Screens Lagosians for HBP, Hepatitis, H. pylori, others

By Chioma Obinna

To ensure a healthier future, Amal Outreach, a public health initiative, is spearheading a nationwide initiative to promote preventive health, particularly, in Lagos Island communities.

The outreach is a proactive approach designed to empower individuals to take control of their well-being and reduce the burden of chronic diseases.  Studies have shown that preventive health focuses on early detection, risk reduction, and lifestyle modifications to prevent illnesses before they escalate.

Speaking to Good Health Weekly, during its final outreach for the year, the Programme Manager for Amal Outreach, Mrs Aisha Alli-Oluwafuyi said  there was need for Nigerians to prioritise regular check-ups, healthy eating, and physical activity, to significantly improve their quality of life and longevity.

Alli-Oluwafuyi who said the medical outreach provides  crucial health services to residents in the Lagos Island area urged individuals to prioritise preventive health and take proactive steps to safeguard their well-being.

She said by making small changes in daily habits, individuals can collectively create a healthier and more resilient society.

Continuing, she said the event was the culmination of a year-long series aimed at improving preventive healthcare access in some of Lagos Island’s most underserved communities.

She disclosed that the outreach has reached over 1,600 people in the last one year.

“Since January, Amal Outreach has conducted over 10 successful medical outreaches, reaching over 1,600 individuals with free health screenings, consultations, and education.

“Each event provided essential services such as blood pressure checks, diabetes screenings, HIV testing, eye and dental checks, and more.

“The medical team also tested for conditions such as hepatitis B, C, and H. pylori infection, identifying many cases that had gone undiagnosed.

The Programme Manager  further highlighted the organisation’s commitment to preventive healthcare.

Alli-Oluwafuyi said most common health issues identified during the outreach included hypertension, with a staggering 40-50 percent of participants over the age of 50 testing positive.

She listed other prevalent conditions to include undiagnosed hepatitis B and high rates of H. pylori infection, which can lead to stomach ulcers and even cancer if left untreated.

Speaking, the doctor in-charge of Iyewo Clinic, Dr. Oluwatobiloba Ajibola stressed the importance of making preventive healthcare a priority, particularly in the face of Nigeria’s challenging economic conditions. According to Ajibola, “Prevention is always better than cure. Many people are unaware of conditions like hypertension, which can silently damage your body. It’s crucial to take time for regular health check-ups.”

Ajibola also encouraged Nigerians to incorporate healthier lifestyle habits, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, into their routines to help prevent chronic illnesses.

“Exercise, even just a 30-minute walk a day, can make a huge difference in managing blood pressure and other health conditions,” he advised. 

She said Amal outreach is dedicated to promoting preventive health through various initiatives, including community outreach programs like health fairs, workshops, and educational campaigns to raise awareness about preventive health.

“We also collaborate with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers to integrate preventive care into routine practice.”

informal sector who often lack access to quality healthcare services.

Alli-Oluwafuyi stressed the importance of engaging these hard-to-reach groups. “The informal sector is vital to Nigeria’s economy, but many of these individuals don’t prioritise preventive care due to lack of awareness, financial constraints, or limited access to medical services,” she said. “We aim to bridge that gap and ensure that they have access to necessary screenings and health education.”

On what is expected in the coming year, she said Amal Outreach is expanding its reach in the coming year, with plans to venture into even more informal communities beyond Lagos Island.

They also plan to partner with local schools and corporate organisations to provide screenings for staff and students, with the aim of raising health awareness across multiple sectors.

She said the programme is primarily funded through donations and corporate partnerships. Some of this year’s key sponsors included UAC Foods, CSL Laboratories, and the Omo Osho Foundation.

She called for continued support from individuals and organisations. “We’re always open to new partnerships and donations to help us expand our services and reach more people. We believe that with greater collaboration, we can improve the health outcomes for many more Nigerians.”

Speaking, the doctor in-charge of Iyewo Clinic, Dr. Oluwatobiloba Ajibola stressed the importance of making preventive healthcare a priority, particularly in the face of Nigeria’s challenging economic conditions. According to Ajibola, “Prevention is always better than cure. Many people are unaware of conditions like hypertension, which can silently damage your body. It’s crucial to take time for regular health check-ups.”

Ajibola also encouraged Nigerians to incorporate healthier lifestyle habits, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, into their routines to help prevent chronic illnesses.

“Exercise, even just a 30-minute walk a day, can make a huge difference in managing blood pressure and other health conditions,” he advised.

With the ongoing support of sponsors and donors, Amal Outreach hopes to continue making a significant impact on Nigeria’s healthcare landscape in the year ahead.

Amal Outreach is a public health initiative dedicated to providing free medical screenings, education, and healthcare services to underserved communities, particularly within Nigeria’s informal sector. By focusing on preventive care, the organisation aims to raise awareness, promote early diagnosis, and reduce the incidence of preventable diseases.