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By Emeka Chiaghanam

Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, has warned residents of Anambra State against the dangers of untreated high blood pressure, describing hypertension as a “silent killer” that can lead to sudden death if not detected early.

He gave the warning during a press briefing in Awka on Tuesday to mark activities for the 2026 World Hypertension Day celebration, where he also announced free blood pressure checks across government hospitals and primary healthcare centres in the state.

Dr Obidike said the exercise is aimed at helping residents identify and manage hypertension early before it develops into severe health complications such as stroke, kidney failure and heart disease.

He explained that many people live with high blood pressure without knowing, making it one of the most dangerous non-communicable diseases in the world.

According to him, the Soludo administration has stepped up efforts to tackle the growing health challenge through awareness campaigns, expanded screening programmes and improved access to treatment across Anambra State.

 

Free BP Checks Rolled Out Across Hospitals

The Commissioner said the free blood pressure checks are being carried out in state-owned hospitals and primary healthcare centres, including the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Amaku Awka, and General Hospital Enugwukwu.

He noted that the programme is open to all residents regardless of background, stressing that early detection remains key to reducing deaths linked to hypertension.

Dr Obidike said the government introduced the “Solution Know Your Number” campaign to encourage people to regularly check their blood pressure and take responsibility for their health.

“We are carrying out aggressive sensitisation so that people can access the medication and treatment they need,” he said.

He added that Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration remains committed to working with health partners to reduce the burden of hypertension in the state.

 

Commissioner Urges Lifestyle Change

Dr Obidike urged residents not to wait until they become seriously ill before checking their blood pressure.

He said regular checks should become part of everyday life, adding that prevention is better than emergency treatment.

He advised people to adopt healthier lifestyles such as regular exercise, reduced alcohol intake and improved diet to reduce the risk of high blood pressure.

“People should check their BP every week,” he said. “Eat healthy meals, exercise and avoid excessive alcohol consumption to prevent sudden death.”

He warned that untreated hypertension can quietly damage vital organs over time without showing clear symptoms.

 

Support from Health Partners and Government Initiatives

The Commissioner commended the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Population Services International (PSI) for supporting the state’s campaign against hypertension.

He also praised Governor Soludo for prioritising healthcare reforms in Anambra State, and acknowledged the efforts of the governor’s wife, Mrs Nonye Soludo, through her “Healthy Living With Nonye Soludo” initiative.

According to him, these partnerships are helping to strengthen awareness and improve access to preventive healthcare services.

 

State Expands Awareness Activities

Also speaking at the briefing, the State Non-Communicable Disease Coordinator, Mrs Adaku Ego, said several activities were organised to mark the 2026 celebration.

She explained that free screenings and treatment exercises were carried out from May 17 to May 19, alongside road shows across the state to educate residents on hypertension and its dangers.

She added that this year’s theme, “Controlling Hypertension Together – Check Your Blood Pressure Regularly and Defeat the Silent Killer,” reflects the need for collective action against the disease.

Representatives from World Health Organization (WHO), Population Services International (PSI) and the Anambra State Primary Health Care Development Agency attended the briefing in Awka.

Health officials continue to urge residents to take advantage of the free services and remain proactive in checking their blood pressure to avoid preventable deaths.