World Hypertension Day Outreach: Havana Specialist Hospital Extends Love to the Community

Last week, Havana Specialist Hospital hosted a highly successful health outreach event dedicated to lowering blood pressure and promoting overall health. The event, held from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm at the hospital’s premises at 115 Akerele Extension, Surulere, Lagos, offered a range of free health services to the community. The primary goal of the day was to educate the public and raise awareness about hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. Hypertension is a leading cause of various health issues, including strokes, heart attacks, kidney disease, and it can contribute to dementia. Many individuals with hypertension are unaware of their condition since it often presents no symptoms, and they may only discover it after experiencing a heart attack or stroke.

The day began with a rally through several streets in Surulere, encouraging residents to visit the hospital for various health check-ups which aims to highlight the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring and encourage preventive measures to reduce the prevalence of hypertension-related complications. These services were generously supported and sponsored by Real Estate firm, GrandStone Development Limited. The outreach featured free blood pressure checks, vital signs monitoring, malaria tests, medication distribution, doctor consultations, blood sugar tests, as well as the provision of fruits and water.

The event saw a significant turnout, with community members eager to access the comprehensive free health checks and consultations provided. Participants benefited from professional medical advice and essential health services, all aimed at promoting a healthier community. Peter Oyedokun, MD of GrandStone Development Limited, emphasized the importance of their involvement, stating, “At our company, we strongly believe that real estate and health are intertwined. Hypertension is a globally recognized health issue. Our partnership with the hospital aims to create awareness and provide resources to help manage the risk of hypertension.”

Dr. Aria Emoruwa Enefo, a Consultant Family Physician, highlighted various measures to manage hypertension. She explained, “The first step is to screen for hypertension to determine if you have it. Regular blood pressure checks are crucial. Lifestyle modifications are also important in reducing the risk. This includes reducing salt intake, increasing fluid and fruit consumption, cutting down on soda drinks, minimizing alcohol intake, and maintaining a healthy weight. Although hypertension can be hereditary, lifestyle changes can significantly mitigate the risk.”

Enefo also noted the role of medication in managing hypertension, pointing out that it is often necessary for those with significantly elevated blood pressure or those who do not respond adequately to lifestyle changes alone. She stressed the importance of adherence to prescribed medications and regular follow-ups with healthcare providers to ensure optimal blood pressure control. In conclusion, she urged the public to take proactive steps towards managing their blood pressure, underscoring that early detection and consistent management can prevent serious complications associated with hypertension.