WASH FM and Phlox Foundation Lead Free Hepatitis Screening and Vaccination Drive in Lagos

In a significant health initiative to mark World Hepatitis Day 2025, WASH 94.9 FM Lagos, in partnership with Phlox Health WASH Foundation, the Society for Gastroenterology and Hepatology in Nigeria, Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (Lagos Chapter), and Rotary Club Akute, organized a free hepatitis screening and vaccination event for Lagos residents on Friday, August 8, 2025, at the WASH FM premises in Olowora, Lagos.

The event supported the global theme for World Hepatitis Day 2025, “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down,” which calls for dismantling financial, social, and systemic barriers to prevent hepatitis and liver cancer. Hepatitis remains a leading cause of liver disease and liver cancer, with chronic hepatitis B and C affecting millions worldwide. In Nigeria alone, approximately 75% of the population has been exposed to hepatitis, with the country ranking third globally in hepatitis prevalence. The economic burden of hepatitis in Nigeria is estimated at well over N13 trillion annually, emphasizing the urgent need for screening, vaccination, and treatment.

Dr. Emuobor Odeghe, Consultant Gastroenterologist at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), highlighted that hepatitis B virus is about 100 times more infectious than HIV and that excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of contracting hepatitis. She noted that children could contract hepatitis B through contact with infected wounds and stressed the importance of testing and vaccinating those who test negative, while treating those who test positive. Healthcare workers are also identified as a high-risk group who require regular screening.

Mr. Abayomi Alao, Program Director of Phlox Health WASH Foundation, emphasized the growing population of hepatitis patients and the critical role of the event in reversing the trend of this silent epidemic. He called on Lagosians to take hepatitis seriously by listening to expert advice and sharing knowledge within their communities.

Dr. Omobolanle Johnson, Health Physician and Senior Medical Officer of the Lagos State Primary Healthcare Board, urged the vaccination of all children at birth and emphasized that both children and adults should regularly undergo hepatitis testing. She also underscored the importance of a healthy lifestyle—proper diet, clean water, and exercise—for overall well-being and hepatitis prevention.

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The event reflects WASH FM’s commitment as Nigeria’s first dedicated health radio station to advancing health awareness and preventive healthcare through community engagement and education. Located in Omole Phase 2, Lagos, WASH FM has been instrumental in disseminating vital health information aligned with Sustainable Development Goals related to health access.

This comprehensive screening and vaccination effort is part of wider national initiatives aligned with the Nigerian government’s commitment to eliminating hepatitis by 2030, including Project 365, which focuses on halting hepatitis transmission and expanding treatment access.

With over 20 million Nigerians living with hepatitis B or C and a large majority unaware of their status, these efforts are crucial in the battle to reduce morbidity, mortality, and economic costs associated with hepatitis. Public participation in testing, vaccination, and awareness campaigns remains vital to achieving a hepatitis-free Nigeria.

This event not only provided free hepatitis screening and vaccination but also served to empower Lagosians with critical knowledge, encouraging intentional healthcare practices to protect themselves and their families.

World Hepatitis Day, observed globally on July 28th, continues to serve as an annual reminder of the need for concerted action to end viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030 through expanded access, integrated care, vaccination, safe injection practices, testing, and treatment.