The Tindonsobligo Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) facility has intensified its public health outreach in Bolgatanga as part of activities marking World Hypertension Month. Led by Nursing Officer Jamilatu Mumuni Fuseini, the team has been conducting health screenings for the general public, including staff at A1 Radio on Friday, May 31, 2025. The effort is part of a broader campaign aimed at raising awareness and improving early detection of hypertension and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
The month-long initiative, which concluded on May 31, focused on checking blood pressure (B.P) levels, conducting HIV testing and counseling, and offering hemoglobin (H.B) tests. The campaign was designed to reach people in diverse settings—including communities, schools, and hotels—places where individuals may otherwise be reluctant or afraid to seek medical services on their own.
“We are going into communities, visiting schools, and stopping by hotels—wherever we know we’ll find people. We go there, give them health education, and take their blood pressure,” said Madam Fuseini during the screening exercise at A1 Radio.
She noted a concerning rise in hypertension cases, prompting the health team to proactively bring screening services directly to the public. This approach not only ensures access but also provides much-needed health education about lifestyle-related conditions and the importance of early diagnosis.
She explained that individuals with elevated blood pressure readings are not immediately placed on medication. Instead, they are monitored for about a week to determine whether temporary factors like stress may be contributing to the high readings. This patient-centered approach ensures that care decisions are based on a clearer understanding of an individual’s overall health.
“What we tell people is that checking your blood pressure or HIV status shouldn’t be something you do only when you feel sick. There are medications that can help, but we don’t start treatment based on one high reading. We have to monitor you for about a week,” she said.
The team also integrates HIV testing and counseling into the campaign—an area where participation remains low due to stigma or fear. By combining services, the initiative aims to normalize these checkups as part of routine care and encourage more people to prioritize their health.
“As we’re doing this, we’re also offering HIV testing and counseling, which is another concern. Many people don’t come forward for that,” Madam Fuseini added.
While the special activities officially concluded at the end of May, Madam Fuseini emphasized that the health directorate remains available year-round to provide education and services during home visits and regular community engagements.
“This activity was for the month, but the work continues every day,” she said.
She further stressed the importance of proactive health monitoring and community-based care in improving public health outcomes in the region, urging individuals to normalize regular check-ups—even when they are not feeling unwell.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
