In an effort to address the high prevalence of hypertension and other health concerns among market women in Nigeria, General Hospital Mushin, in collaboration with the Chairman of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Rasaq Olusola Ajala, organised a free medical outreach programme at Ojuwoye Market, tagged ‘Your Health, Our Passion.’ This initiative brought healthcare closer to traders and residents in the Mushin area.
The outreach, led by Dr. Oluyemi Taiwo, MD/CEO of General Hospital Mushin, aimed to provide accessible medical services to individuals who may face financial barriers to healthcare. Hundreds of traders, buyers, and residents benefitted from a variety of healthcare services, including obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, family planning, immunisation, general surgery, ophthalmology, dental care, and physiotherapy. Dr. Taiwo emphasised the importance of taking healthcare to the grassroots, ensuring that individuals don’t have to wait for hospital visits to receive medical attention. Reflecting on past medical outreaches, she pointed out the alarming prevalence of hypertension and diabetes among market women, which she attributed to urbanisation, poor dietary habits and financial challenges. “Many people, even those aware of their conditions, often neglect them due to the pressures of daily life,” she said.
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The outreach offered free medications, eyeglasses, and pharmacy services, with the hospital aiming to serve at least 1,000 people during the event. Dr. Taiwo also cautioned against the dangers of self-medication, encouraging participants to seek proper medical attention instead of relying on over-the-counter drugs. Timed to coincide with the upcoming Ramadan fasting period, the initiative also aimed to ensure participants were in good health before the fast. In addition to medical care, the outreach included educational sessions on common health issues such as hypertension, diabetes, and eye disorders.
Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Chairman Ajala praised the programme, highlighting its alignment with the state government’s commitment to quality healthcare. He emphasis ed that the initiative reflects the belief that healthcare is a fundamental right for all, not a privilege. “This is part of our responsibility as the government of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA,” he said.
