I’ve seen my fair share of medical emergencies. But one case that still resonates with me is a recent outreach we conducted in Kano.

It was a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing one’s health and presenting early for medical checks.

During our medical mission in the ancient city, a man walked in looking healthy and fit.

However, upon checking his blood pressure, it read a staggering 193/133 – an emergency case by any standard.

My team sprang into action, and I’m glad we were able to intervene in time.

An emergency case already and these are the kind of situations where a person goes to sleep and never wakes up, or a situation that can cause stroke or heart failure.

It’s a reality that hits home, and I shudder to think what would have happened if he hadn’t presented himself when he did.

If we hadn’t intervened when we did, he would have likely been counted among the dead. But thanks to our team’s prompt action, he’s alive today. This is a pointer to the power of timely medical intervention.

So, what’s the takeaway from this experience? It’s simple: Nigerians must prioritize their health.

Presenting early to the hospital and going for regular check-ups can have a significant impact on the treatment and management of diseases. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

That’s why I always advocate for telemedicine. With telemedicine, you’re always just a phone call away from your doctors and medical professionals. Medicine is always better when it’s not an emergency. You can get the care you need from the comfort of your own home, without having to worry about the hassle and cost of hospital visits.

The sad truth is that many people are walking around daily without knowing their health status, and this is bad. Don’t let that be you. Take control of your health today. Get regular check-ups, and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you’re feeling unwell. Trust me, it’s worth it.