Ayoola Babalola
General Hospital Somolu, Lagos State, commemorated the 2026 edition of World Hypertension Day on Wednesday with a large-scale awareness campaign on high blood pressure and the unveiling of a new fast track and wellness centre aimed at improving access to preventive healthcare services.
The programme, held within the hospital premises, brought together medical professionals, government officials, healthcare workers and residents for free medical screenings and public sensitisation on hypertension, often described by health experts as a “silent killer.”
The event was organised in partnership with New Heights Pharmaceutical Company, manufacturers of the Omron blood pressure monitor brand.
Medical Director and Chief Executive Officer of the hospital, Mustapha Quadri, said the increasing prevalence of hypertension underscored the importance of routine medical checks and early detection.
Quadri praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for what he described as sustained investment in healthcare delivery across Lagos, particularly in Somolu, while urging residents not to ignore regular health screenings.
He warned that hypertension continued to affect millions globally, stressing that many people remained unaware of their condition until complications emerged.
The medical director also advised residents to adopt healthier lifestyles, including adequate rest and proper nutrition, to reduce the likelihood of cardiovascular complications linked to uncontrolled blood pressure.
Director of Nursing Services, Philomena Ihatorwhyte, echoed the call for early diagnosis, encouraging residents to visit hospitals regularly for medical evaluation.
She said tackling hypertension required collective action from individuals, communities and healthcare institutions because of its status as one of the leading preventable causes of death worldwide.
Consultant family physician at the hospital, Eunice Olawepo, said hypertension frequently develops without visible symptoms, making routine checks critical.
“And if you are diagnosed, strictly take your prescribed medications as directed,” she advised.
Chairperson of the hospital’s outreach committee, Sekinat Olukoya, also warned residents about the health dangers associated with unmanaged hypertension, including stroke, heart disease and kidney failure.
Representatives of New Heights Pharmaceutical Company donated Omron blood pressure monitors and other medical supplies to support screening activities during the programme.
Marketing Manager of the company, Olakunle Osunlowo, alongside Omron Product Manager, Taiwo Oladitan, urged residents to monitor their blood pressure consistently, reduce salt consumption, avoid tobacco and alcohol, and remain physically active.
The event also featured free screening services for hypertension, diabetes and malaria, while medications were distributed to participants diagnosed with malaria and high blood pressure.
Representing the chairman of Somolu Local Government, Secretary to the Local Government, Ayodele Coker, commended the turnout recorded during the outreach and praised the hospital’s efforts at promoting preventive healthcare.
A major highlight of the programme was the formal inauguration of the hospital’s wellness centre.
The facility was officially opened on behalf of the Somolu Local Government Chairman, Lateef Ashimi, by Coker, who described the project as a significant step towards improving healthcare efficiency and wellness support services.
According to him, the centre would provide faster access to medical care for non-emergency conditions while reducing waiting time for patients.
“It will help to minimise wait times and streamline patient flow,” he said.
Coker added that the wellness centre would bring together specialists, including psychologists, dietitians, fitness trainers and health coaches, to support residents in building healthier lifestyles.
The event concluded with a staff wellness exercise session organised as part of the hospital’s monthly fitness and well-being initiative.
The 2026 World Hypertension Day celebration was held under the theme, “Controlling Hypertension Together.”
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