Alarming Health Crisis: 13.8 Million Lagosians Battling the Deadly Trio of High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, and Obesity

October 27, 2024 Catherine Williams Health

About 13.8 million Lagosians suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity, according to new Lagos State Government data.

High blood pressure affects 8.67 million people, and more than 6 million are unaware of it.

Obesity affects 3.48 million people and diabetes affects 1.73 million people, half of whom are unrecognized and undiagnosed.

To address these silent killers, the Nigeria Governors Forum has launched a free screening program across the state. The Federal Ministry of Health also aims to screen 10 million Nigerians for diabetes and high blood pressure between October 28 and November 3.

Understanding the silent killer

In a recent presentation, the State Minister of Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, said the campaign tagged “Know Your Numbers, Manage Your Numbers” would test 800,000 Lagos residents within a week.

  • Abayomi highlighted the severity of diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure, which he called “silent killers.” This condition often occurs without any noticeable symptoms, silently damaging vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, and eyes. “It may seem harmless at first, but it can cause serious health problems.” he warned.
  • He said the campaign represents a powerful effort to combat high blood pressure and diabetes, which often go undiagnosed until serious complications develop. “We ask residents to actively participate in the campaign to understand and manage their health.”

high prevalence

In his presentation, Professor Abayomi explained that a significant portion of the city’s 30 million people suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity, but many are unaware of their serious condition.

  • “The prevalence of hypertension is 30%, affecting approximately 8.67 million people, and surprisingly, 70% of them are unaware of their condition.
  • “This lack of awareness is especially dangerous because high blood pressure is a leading cause of heart disease, stroke and kidney failure.” he pointed out.
  • Obesity, a major cause of high blood pressure and diabetes, affects 3.48 million Lagosians (about 12% of the population).

Professor Abayomi said the increase in sedentary lifestyles and poor diet were contributing factors, while obesity increased the risk of life-threatening diseases.

Diabetes Risks and Symptoms

Diabetes is another pressing health problem, with a prevalence of 6% among Lagosians (1.73 million residents). Surprisingly, about 50% of these people are unaware of their condition.

  • Dr. Abayomi warned that untreated diabetes can lead to serious complications, including blindness and cardiovascular disease.

He described the common symptoms of diabetes, including constant thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and slow-healing wounds. High blood pressure often goes unnoticed until symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and chest pain appear. “If left unchecked, these silent killers can lead to a serious health crisis.” he warned.

To promote accessible healthcare, the Lagos State Government, through the Ilera Eko Health Insurance Scheme, provides annual screening for hypertension and diabetes to subscribers as part of its standard premium package.

“The goal is to remove barriers to regular health checkups.” Professor Abayomi emphasized that early diagnosis and lifestyle changes can alleviate long-term health problems.

During the campaign week, Lagos residents can visit any of the 300 primary health centers and 30 general hospitals in the state for free testing. We provide blood pressure, blood sugar, and BMI calculation tests to help citizens better understand and manage their health.

Recently, in August 2024, 14 African countries, including Nigeria, pledged $4,500 in the World Health Organization’s (WHO) first investment round to raise sustainable financing for key health initiatives, including the fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension. More than $10,000 was pledged. Diabetes, obesity.

Health experts have emphasized the importance of health checks and lifestyle changes to combat these silent killers. “It is important to exercise, reduce salt intake, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Weight loss can also significantly lower blood pressure. “Continued medication use is essential for people diagnosed with high blood pressure to prevent complications.”