The Osun State Ministry of Health has ramped up its efforts to combat tuberculosis by encouraging residents to take part in free screening programs.
This initiative was part of activities commemorating World Tuberculosis Day.
The renewed campaign, focused on enhancing early detection and treatment, was officially launched at Ayetoro Junction in Osogbo, where health officials offered free tuberculosis and blood pressure screenings to the public.
Speaking at the event on Tuesday, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Isiaka Adekunle, emphasized the need for greater awareness and active community participation in fighting the disease statewide.
Represented by the Director of Public Health, Akeem Bello, he highlighted that tuberculosis is both preventable and treatable, underlining the critical importance of early diagnosis.
“Tuberculosis is both preventable and curable. We urge residents to take advantage of the free screening services and commence treatment immediately if diagnosed,” he said.
He noted that the disease remained prevalent in many communities, adding that intensified case detection would enable health authorities to reduce its spread significantly.
According to him, “identifying more cases should be seen as progress, as it allows for prompt treatment and gradual reduction of the disease burden.”
The Permanent Secretary also advised residents to avoid overcrowded environments and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms associated with tuberculosis.
In his remarks, the Osun State Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme Manager, Oladele Akano, reiterated that treatment for tuberculosis remains free in designated public health facilities.
He listed symptoms to include persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, chest pain and prolonged low-grade fever, urging residents to report suspected cases promptly.
Akano identified key treatment centres in the state, including the UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex and Wesley Guild Hospital.
Also speaking, the Country Representative of the Damien Foundation, Fadeyi Olasunkanmi, said the organisation continues to support free diagnosis and treatment services in the state.
He disclosed that while Nigeria previously detected about 25 per cent of estimated TB cases, sustained interventions in Osun have increased diagnosis coverage to approximately 85 per cent.
Activities at the event included a Walk to Live awareness campaign, community sensitisation, chest examinations and on-the-spot tuberculosis testing for residents.
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