Ubuntu Stroke 360, in collaboration with The Whole Armour of God Church, has organised a free medical outreach in Ibadan to commemorate World Stroke Day and raise awareness about stroke prevention and other non-communicable diseases.
The outreach provided free health screenings, medical consultations, medications and health education on stroke prevention, diabetes, hypertension and oral hygiene.
Participants benefited from blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol tests, chest X-rays and professional medical advice aimed at promoting early detection and timely treatment of health conditions.
Speaking at the event, Dr Oluwakayode Oyeniyi highlighted the connection between general health and oral hygiene, identifying family history, unhealthy dietary habits, excessive alcohol consumption and high salt intake as risk factors for diabetes and hypertension.
He also advised members of the public to brush their teeth twice daily to prevent plaque accumulation, tooth decay and other dental problems.
Senior Resident Neurologist at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Dr Margaret Allen-Taylor, described stroke as a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
She identified hypertension, diabetes, abnormal cholesterol levels and underlying heart conditions as major risk factors, noting that physical inactivity and unhealthy diets could further increase the risk.
Dr Allen-Taylor also educated participants on the BE FAST approach to recognising stroke symptoms, including balance problems, eye or vision changes, facial drooping and arm weakness. She stressed the importance of seeking emergency medical attention immediately when stroke is suspected.
The convener of the outreach, Pastor Felicia Bamidele-Sholeye, said the initiative was driven by her commitment to making essential healthcare accessible to people who might otherwise struggle to afford medical services.
She explained that the outreach had become an annual tradition through which she commemorated her birthday by providing free healthcare to people in need.
Also speaking, Mrs Titilayo Sholeye-Akintola, one of the convener’s children, disclosed that the initiative had been sustained for more than 25 years, predating the establishment of The Whole Armour of God Church.
She said the programme was designed to promote health awareness, encourage early detection of diseases and provide free medical consultations, screenings and medications where appropriate.
The organisers called on members of the public to prioritise regular health checks, adopt healthier lifestyles and seek prompt medical attention when symptoms occur.
They expressed hope that sustained health education and improved access to affordable healthcare would help reduce preventable illnesses and complications associated with stroke and other non-communicable diseases.
