Health
WAPCP Takes World Diabetes Day Outreach to Gwagwalada
By Iyojo Ameh
In commemoration of World Diabetes Day 2024, the West African Postgraduate College of Pharmacists (WAPCP) FCT Abuja Zone extended its annual outreach to Gwagwalada, a satellite town in Abuja.
Pharmacist Abubakar Danraka, PhD, Zonal Coordinator of WAPCP Abuja Zone, highlighted the significance of the event and the choice of Gwagwalada as the host location.
The outreach featured free health screenings, including blood sugar, blood pressure, and Body Mass Index (BMI) tests, as well as counseling sessions on managing diabetes through lifestyle changes. “Managing diabetes involves more than medication; it requires an understanding of the disease, adherence to proper diets, and regular checkups,” Pharmacist Danraka added. “Our goal is to empower the community to take control of their health.”
Pharmacist Mohammed Garba, Director of Pharmaceutical Services at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, emphasized the importance of early detection. “Diabetes is a silent killer, and many people only realize they have it after complications arise,” he noted. “This outreach bridges the gap between healthcare services and the public, ensuring better health outcomes.”
The Local Organizing Committee, chaired by Pharmacist Hafsat Abdullahi, reported that the outreach had already screened over 300 residents, with a target of reaching 500. “Some individuals screened today require immediate medical attention, underscoring the critical role of programs like this,” she stated.
Dr. Halima Abdullahi-Gero, Director of Pharmaceutical Services at the FCT Hospital Management Board, educated participants on the symptoms of diabetes, such as frequent thirst, excessive urination, unexplained weight loss, and blurred vision. “Regular checkups are essential, as many people remain unaware of their condition until complications set in,” she explained.
The event included comprehensive health screenings and extensive counseling sessions led by pharmacists. The Director of Pharmaceutical Services, FCT Hospital Management Board, Dr. Halima Abdullahi-Gero explained the symptoms of diabetes and emphasized the importance of regular checkups. “Frequent thirst, excessive urination, unexplained weight loss, and blurred vision are warning signs,” she said. “But many people remain unaware until it’s too late. This outreach is about equipping them with the knowledge to take preventive action.”
Pharmacist Danraka further stressed the need for government advocacy, urging policymakers to subsidize diabetes medications to make them accessible for low-income populations.
The outreach witnessed an enthusiastic turnout, with many residents expressing gratitude for the free services and the opportunity to learn more about their health. One participant remarked, “This program has opened our eyes to the importance of early detection and managing diabetes effectively.”
WAPCP FCT Abuja Zone plans to extend future outreach programs to other underserved areas like Nyanya and Kuje, reinforcing its commitment to breaking barriers, bridging gaps, and empowering communities through education and healthcare.
Pharmacist Danraka also emphasized the need for advocacy and policy recommendations to the government on providing subsidy for purchase of Diabetic medications.
The enthusiastic turnout reflected the community’s eagerness to learn and improve their health. Many residents expressed gratitude for the free services and the opportunity to gain insights into managing their well-being.
WAPCP FCT Abuja Zone plans to extend future World Diabetes Day outreach programs to other underserved areas, including Nyanya and Kuje, reinforcing its commitment to breaking barriers, bridging gaps, and empowering communities through education and healthcare services.
