NO fewer than 1,000 people are to benefit from free medical treatment organised by the Edo State Hospitals Management Board, in conjunction with the Novo Nordic and Acu Check Foundation.
Dr Udoka Imoisi, the Consultant Physician at the Diabetic Centre, Central Hospital, Auchi said this yesterday in Auchi.
Imoisi spoke during the flag-off ceremony for free screening exercise for diabetics, hypertension and eyes problems patients held in the Etsako-West Local Government Area of Edo.
“This programme is organised by the Edo State Hospital Management Board and we are targeting 1,000 vulnerable women and children to benefit from the gesture,’’ she said.
The consultant said that the programme was initiated to provide medical treatment and counselling for age-related ailments such as high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, peptic ulcer, low-back pain and malaria.
“However, we are not rejecting any patient or ailment; after diagnosis, we advise the patient on the next step to take.
“The motive is to help the indigent people in the rural communities and the poor who cannot afford to seek medical attention here,’’ she said.
Imoisi urged the council and religious leaders in the area to help mobilise the people for the programme, to ensure its success.
Mr Charles Omoh-Saliu, a diabetic instructor, described diabetes as the resultant effect of those whose organs cannot create enough insulin to keep blood glucose sugar levels in the normal range.
According to him, major symptoms of the disease include frequent urination, particularly at night, tiredness and weight loss, amongst others.
He advised the general public to take advantage of the exercise and go for regular medical check-ups, if they must live long.
