Rivers: Deputy Gov. advocates regular medical check-ups for people above 30 years

Barth Ndubuwah, Port Harcourt

Rivers State Deputy Governor, Dr. (Mrs) Ipalibo Harry Banigo has advised people that are 30 years and above to go for regular medical check-up to prevent Diabetes.

Dr. Banigo gave this advice in a statement from the Government House in Port Harcourt on Saturday  to commemorate the 2021 World Diabetes Day.

Dr. Banigo said the advice became necessary in view of the fact that diabetes is no longer the disease of the elderly, and has come down to the youths and children, who she said, could also have the type 1 Diabetes.

“Check your blood sugar level regularly to know whether it is normal or it is at the pre diabetes stage, because it can be reversed, if it is at the pre diabetes stage, where you will watch your diet, engage in regular exercise and stay away from tobacco and alcohol,” Dr. Banigo said.

She also said that those who already have diabetes should manage it by taking their medication, engage in regular exercise for about 150 minutes a week, eat food that are high in fibre, like legumes (beans), cucumber and garden eggs.

According to the Public Health Physician, under the watch of Governor Wike, health workers have been trained on screening for Diabetes, screening apparatus like glucometer and test strips have been provided, while a massive awareness campaign on the prevention and control of Diabetes is ongoing with the distribution of IEC materials.

The Deputy Governor further said that, “At the healthcare level, Primary Healthcare workers have also undergone training on the management of gestational Diabetes, while the Mother and Child Hospital would also help to manage Diabetes in our mothers, pregnant women and children.”

The 14th of November, each year has been set aside to celebrate World Diabetes Day. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Access To Diabetes Care.”