Lagos Health District V Urges Collective Push for Preventive Care

Lagos State Health District V is rallying residents, government, private sector players, and communities to prioritize preventive healthcare and evidence-based practices for stronger public health.

Permanent Secretary Dr. Oladapo Asiyanbi issued this urgent appeal at the World Health Day Walk and Medical Outreach on April 11, 2026, at 2nd Avenue, Festac Town in Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area. The event, joined by staff and management, marked the global observance of World Health Day under the 2026 theme “Health Equity Starts Here,” as promoted by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Dr. Asiyanbi stressed that health improvements demand collective effort, extending beyond government initiatives. “Urban, riverine, and border communities must lead in healthy living,” he said, aligning the push with Lagos State’s THEMES Plus Agenda, which bolsters primary healthcare to ease disease loads.

He tackled malaria myths head-on, citing recent Nigerian data from the National Malaria Elimination Programme showing up to 60% of self-diagnosed cases are negative upon testing. “Test before treating—science guides smart choices and curbs drug abuse,” Dr. Asiyanbi advised, echoing WHO guidelines that rapid diagnostic tests prevent resistance to artemisinin-based therapies.

Key lifestyle tips he shared include 6-8 hours of sleep nightly, balanced diets rich in local staples like vegetables and proteins, consistent exercise, and routine checks for hypertension and diabetes—conditions rampant in Nigeria per a 2025 Nigerian Heart Foundation report noting 30 million cases.

Enrollment in the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme (LSHIS) got a strong plug as an affordable lifeline, with over 500,000 enrollees by early 2026 per state records. He spotlighted child vaccinations, maternal antenatal care, and prostate screenings for men over 40.

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“From cradle to grave, prevention trumps cure,” Dr. Asiyanbi affirmed, underscoring District V’s lifelong commitment.

The lively event packed a health walk, talks, aerobics, and flexibility sessions to spark activity. Free screenings covered blood pressure, sugar levels, malaria, TB, and HIV, with on-site referrals. Awards honored top community volunteers, health champions, and 13 winners of the 2026 World Health Day Challenge.

This initiative builds on Lagos’ broader health gains, like a 15% drop in malaria prevalence since 2023 via intensified testing, as reported by the state Ministry of Health.