About 1000 residents of Ogun State benefited from the free healthcare service provided by the Minister of State for Health, Dr Kunle Salako, on Saturday.

Represented by the Special Adviser to the minister, Wale Junaid, the minister spoke during the medical outreach for residents of Ayetoro and Saala– Orile communities in the Yewa North Local Government Area of the state

The event featured a range of services, including malaria treatment, checks for hypertension, diabetes, among others for all age groups.

Mr Salako said that the essence of the medical outreach was to improve the wellness of residents.

He noted that early detection of diseases would prevent untimely loss of lives, especially among people in the rural areas.

The minister said the medical mission was organised in partnership with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency.

He stated, “The health ministry is concerned about the general well being of Nigerians. This medical outreach is one of the moves to ensure that people know their health status. Many people are living with minor health challenges that could lead to major issues if not addressed on time. This kind of programme, no doubt, will let many know their health status. The President of this country places high premium on health, especially for those in the rural areas.’’

The minister noted that plans were ongoing to take the outreach to other communities.

The medical team lead, Dr Olayinka Afeez, also emphasised the importance of periodic check-ups, saying “this many people overlook.”

He said that free medical outreaches, especially in the rural setting, would assist people to check their health status and get referral for treatment

Mr Afeez said, “We have different illnesses that could be discovered during this kind of exercise such as high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis among others.’’

One of the beneficiaries, Oluwabosede Aremu, appreciated the minister for bringing such a noble initiative to Saala Orile for the people of the community.

Another beneficiary, Mary Akinlolu, thanked the facilitator for the gesture, submitting that such exercise would go a long way in helping them to know their health statuses.

(NAN)