Nigerians have been called upon to prioritize their physical and mental well-being, as medical professionals emphasize that emotional trauma, anxiety, financial stress, and lack of peace significantly contribute to various health issues.
Free Medical Outreach Highlights Preventive Care
Dr. Temi Oludayo, Medical Director of Toptee Medical Centre, made the appeal during a one-day free medical outreach organized in partnership with the Baale Community Development Association in Coker-Aguda Local Council Development Area. She urged residents to adopt annual medical check-ups, stressing that prevention is better than cure. The initiative was part of the hospital's commitment to community service and promoting preventive healthcare.
"Sometimes people are not sick because of malaria. Emotional stress, anxiety, and worries can affect people's overall well-being. Everyone should prioritize their happiness and peace of mind," Oludayo stated.
Extending Services to Underserved Communities
The outreach aimed to bring healthcare services to underserved communities across Surulere. Oludayo highlighted the importance of preventive care, noting that many individuals only seek medical attention when conditions become severe. "Some people do not see any reason to visit the hospital if they are not feeling sick, but when healthcare services are brought closer to them and offered free, it helps them know their health status early," she explained.
Dr. Anyaehie Uzochukwu, Clinical Administrator of Toptee Medical Centre, also urged residents to focus on both physical and mental health, emphasizing that early detection saves lives. He cautioned against neglecting routine check-ups, as many conditions can be managed effectively when caught early. He commended the community, medical staff, skin specialists, and doctors who provided free dermatological consultations and skincare advice during the event.
Intentional Healthy Living Amid Economic Hardship
Another medical practitioner, Dr. Ebube Okpaluba, advised Nigerians to be more intentional about healthy living despite economic challenges. She noted that many people concentrate on survival and income generation while ignoring their health until complications arise. Okpaluba encouraged regular physical exercise, stating that it does not need to be strenuous. She warned against sedentary lifestyles, prolonged sitting, and excessive consumption of coffee, energy drinks, and sugary beverages, which contribute to health problems.
She recommended healthier alternatives like water and natural fruit juices, and advised those with hypertension to take medications consistently and monitor blood pressure regularly. Okpaluba also urged reduced salt intake and avoidance of oily foods, fried meals, and excessive red meat, while embracing healthier proteins such as fish, eggs, and chicken. "We know the economy is difficult, but there are still affordable, healthy options like local fish and eggs that people can include in their meals," she added.
Community Partnership and Appreciation
Earlier, Sanni Ogidan, Chairman of the Community Development Committee of Coker-Aguda, said the partnership aimed to bring quality and affordable healthcare closer to residents who struggle to access treatment due to economic hardship. Beneficiaries received free reading glasses, blood pressure checks, malaria and tuberculosis screenings, doctor consultations, and other medical exams. Ogidan stressed the need for residents to take health seriously and avoid waiting until critically ill.
He expressed concern over rising cases of depression, emotional stress, and mental health challenges linked to unemployment, hunger, and economic difficulties. "Many people cannot afford hospital treatment or drugs. Some avoid hospitals because they believe they will still be asked to buy expensive medications. Programmes like this bring relief to the people," he said.
Officials of Coker-Aguda Local Council Development Area, on behalf of the community, expressed gratitude to Toptee Medical Centre, St. Edmond Clinic, eye care service providers, and skin specialists for partnering to improve healthcare access at the grassroots level.
