Anambra launches a free hypertension screening programme across public health facilities to promote early detection and preventive healthcare

The Anambra State Government has commenced a Free Hypertension Screening Programme across all government-owned health facilities in the state, aimed at strengthening preventive healthcare and improving the early detection of non-communicable diseases.

Also read: Senate Passes Landmark Malaria Elimination Agency Bill

The announcement was made in Awka on Friday by the wife of the governor, Nonye Soludo, who urged residents to take advantage of the initiative, describing hypertension as one of the most common and deadly health conditions affecting Nigerians.

According to her, the programme will be available in all public healthcare facilities, including Primary Health Centres and General Hospitals throughout the state.

“I am pleased to share that Anambra State Government has commenced free hypertension screening services across all government-owned health facilities, including our Primary Health Centres and General Hospitals statewide,” she said.

Nonye Soludo stated that the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to ensuring that quality healthcare remains accessible to all residents while promoting early diagnosis of preventable health conditions before they become life-threatening.

The Free Hypertension Screening Programme is expected to encourage more residents to monitor their blood pressure regularly and seek medical attention when necessary.

She urged adults across the state to visit the nearest public health facility, get screened and understand their blood pressure status.

“Hypertension is currently one of the commonest and deadliest health conditions in our society. Visit the nearest public health facility, get screened, know your blood pressure status, and take the right steps towards a healthier and happier life,” she said.

Nonye Soludo added that good health remains one of the most valuable investments for individuals, families and governments, calling on residents to embrace healthy lifestyles and preventive healthcare practices.

Earlier, the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Afam Obidike, said the programme would be implemented across all Primary Healthcare Centres, Comprehensive Health Centres and General Hospitals in the state.

Obidike disclosed that medical officers, primary healthcare coordinators and heads of public health facilities had been directed to ensure full compliance with the initiative.

He described hypertension as a major public health challenge and warned that many people remain unaware they have the condition until serious complications develop.

“The initiative is to ensure residents have easy access to regular blood pressure checks and appropriate medical advice. Hypertension is a major public health challenge,” he said.

The commissioner noted that hypertension is often referred to as a “silent killer” because it can develop without obvious symptoms while significantly increasing the risk of stroke, heart disease and other serious health conditions.

He encouraged residents to utilise the free screening services and stressed that early detection remains one of the most effective ways to prevent and manage hypertension-related complications.

Also read: World Health Organization Confirms Malaria Vaccine Cuts Child Deaths

The state government said the programme forms part of broader efforts to improve public health outcomes and promote a culture of wellness across Anambra State.