In a bid to enhance community health and awareness, the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) Kado/Gwarimpa/Lifecamp Zone is spearheading an initiative to encourage residents to measure and control their blood pressure. This drive, coinciding with World Hypertension Day 2024, aims to highlight the importance of accurate blood pressure measurement and management.
The event which is ongoing as at press time on Friday, May 17, 2024, is taking place at the Etsu Kado Palace, near the Kado Fish Market. Themed “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, and Live Longer,” the campaign underscores the critical role of regular blood pressure checks in preventing hypertension-related complications.
Community members are urged to join the event, where pharmacists are providing free blood pressure screenings, educational sessions on hypertension management, and advice on lifestyle changes necessary for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
“We are passionate about promoting community health,” said Pharm Okey Akuechiama, Coordinator of the ACPN Kado/Gwarimpa/Lifecamp Zone of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter. “By educating the public on the importance of blood pressure monitoring and control, we hope to reduce the incidence of hypertension and related health issues in our community.”
The ACPN Kado/Gwarimpa/Lifecamp Zone emphasises that this initiative is not just for health professionals but for every community member.
The ACPN event is in keeping with the World Health Organisation’s advice. On World Hypertension Day 2024, observed on May 17, the World Health Organisation (WHO) urges the global community to measure and control blood pressure to combat the silent yet deadly issue of hypertension. Hypertension remains a leading risk factor for premature death and disability, with as many as 46% of adults having it unaware of their condition or not receiving treatment. Untreated, it can lead to severe complications like stroke and heart failure.
According to WHO, “Hypertension, and its complications, worsens inequalities and imposes economic hardships on patients and their families, as well as on health systems and national economic and development agendas.” This, the organisation says, is hindering progress towards Sustainable Development Goal target 3.4 , which is to reduce premature mortality due to noncommunicable diseases.
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