Special Adviser to the Governor on Primary Health Care, Dr. Olufemi Onanuga said the rationale for embarking on the screening programme was in line with the Wellness Week. He urged Lagosians to take responsibility of their health and desist from excessive alcohol intake and heavy intake of fat, salt, cholesterol, smoking and calories and go for regular medical check-ups in order to know their health status. 

 

“NCDs include disease conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cancers (particularly breast, cervical, prostate and colorectal cancers); sickle cell anaemia; mental illnesses; injuries and accidents (road, industries and home); chronic lung diseases among others.” 

 

Onanuga noted that  NCDs are  leading cause of functionary impairment and death worldwide.  “By 2020, it is predicted that NCDs will be causing seven out of every 10 deaths in developing countries like Nigeria. These diseases are more expensive to treat although generally preventable if early detection is initiated.”  Speaking, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Jide Idris noted that NCDs in recent times has increased mortality and morbidity in Nigeria. 

 

Idris who described these diseases as silent killers said the government wants people to be aware of their risk factors and other things that can predispose them to the diseases.  He said many people are vulnerable to these diseases due to their life style. Idris said to ensure that the programme is successful; the state government is boosting facilities at the primary levels across the state.