World Hypertension Day: Anambra Intensifies Fight Against Hypertension with Mass Screening Campaign

 

As part of its ongoing battle against non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and especially hypertension, Anambra State is scaling up efforts to curb the growing health challenge through aggressive public health interventions. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Health, the "Solution Know Your Number" campaign has emerged as a cornerstone in the state's mission to promote early detection and management of high blood pressure among residents.

The campaign emphasizes the importance of knowing key health indicators: blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and body mass index. These numbers, according to health officials, are crucial in detecting potentially life-threatening conditions before they become unmanageable. Running the campaign over time, with a focus on consistency, has been vital in creating lasting awareness and promoting regular health checks.

Hypertension, identified as a major health threat in the state's strategic health blueprint, has been given top priority by Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo. His administration has rolled out multiple initiatives across the state to combat the disease, with the “Solution Know Your Number” campaign at the heart of these efforts.

Recent statistics paint a sobering picture. National data shows a 28 percent hypertension prevalence rate in Nigeria, a figure that aligns with findings from Anambra’s screening drive. Out of 2,362 people tested, 651 were confirmed hypertensive—28 percent of those screened. Alarmingly, 254 of these cases were newly diagnosed, underscoring the silent nature of the disease and the pressing need for regular screenings.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, described the figures as a wake-up call. "These numbers are not just statistics; they represent lives at risk. It’s clear that we need a broad, coordinated response involving multiple sectors to turn the tide on this health crisis," he said.

The state’s observance of World Hypertension Day has evolved into more than a symbolic event. This year, it serves as a launchpad for expanded screening, treatment, and referral services, reaching beyond the general hospitals to encompass Primary Health Centres across the state. Free blood pressure checks and proper documentation are being institutionalized as standard procedures within all public health facilities.

Governor Soludo’s leadership has played a pivotal role in driving these initiatives. His administration has not only championed awareness but has also committed to sustaining impactful programmes through improved access and continuity of care. Yet, despite notable progress, challenges persist.

Dr. Obidike acknowledged obstacles such as poor treatment adherence among patients, insufficient healthcare personnel, and inadequate funding. He stressed that addressing these barriers is crucial for long-term success and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to overcoming them.

Calling for collective responsibility, the Health Commissioner urged citizens to play their part in the fight against hypertension. He encouraged lifestyle changes such as reducing salt intake, eating more fruits, exercising regularly, managing stress, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption.

Consistent use of prescribed medication and regular monitoring of blood pressure were also emphasized as essential habits for those already diagnosed. “It is not enough to know your number. What you do with that knowledge—how consistently you monitor and manage it—is what truly matters,” Obidike said.

As Anambra presses forward with its vision of a healthier population, the state government is banking on the power of community participation and continued political will to achieve a hypertension-free future. Health officials remain hopeful that with sustained awareness, early detection, and accessible care, Anambra will become a model for cardiovascular health management in Nigeria.