By Job Osazuwa
DOCTORS in Lagos, under the auspices of Association of Residents Doctors (ARD), Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) branch, yesterday, organised a walk to sensitise residents to asthma.
Asthma, though a non-communicable disease, is said to be affecting over 300 million people across the world.
The medical personnel drawn from different areas, began the awareness walk from LASUTH premises to Ikeja Local Government Secretariat, where they later screened residents for diverse ailments.
The president of the association, Dr. Dadematthews Gbenga said the sensitisation and offering of free medical screening and treatment were some of the mandatory ways his members give back to the society.
According to him, it was unfortunate that many Nigerians lack sufficient information on the disease, leading to rising incidence.
Speaking on the theme of the body’s 2016 annual conference: “Synergy in medical practice, a panacea to challenges in health care delivery,” he urged Nigerians to attach priority to their health, adding that both patients and doctors have their roles to play in achieving a healthy nation.
“We decided to embark on asthma awareness walk because there is a lot of focus on other chronic and non-communicable diseases, while asthma is relegated.
“One in 13 adults is either asthmatic or has a predisposition to the ailment. We are letting people know that it is a disease that can be treated and controlled, and the patient can live a healthy and productive life if he has the right information.
“Today, we have dentists, dental surgeons, optometrists and ophthalmologists, for eye screening, dermatologists, for the skin and family physicians for general health.
“This free screening and treatment is important considering the harsh economic reality in Nigeria.
“We are also sending a message to the public that doctors are not only for demanding better welfare package from the government through strike,’’ he said.