Journalists Urged to Undergo Regular Medical Checks

Experts are urging journalists across Nigeria to take their health more seriously by engaging in frequent medical check-ups.

The call was made at a free medical test organized by the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) for members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun State Correspondents’ Chapel in Osogbo on Tuesday.

The tests involved Hepatitis B, blood sugar level and Blood Pressure (BP) check.

The leader of the team, Dr. Funmilola Azeez recommended quarterly checkups for journalists, regardless of their health status due to the stressful nature of journalism.

She described the journalism profession as a very demanding one, hence the need for a regular body check.

On the essence of the Hepatitis B test, Dr. Azeez noted that: “Sometimes, the symptoms are similar to that of malaria which makes it difficult to detect on time, except a test is carried out”.

She advised Hepatitis B positive patients to refrain from adopting herbal mixture as it does more damage to the liver, causing liver cancer. She advised such patients to visit the hospital for immediate treatment as it can be managed at an early stage.

Read Also: Journalists, CSOs Trained on Sexual, Reproductive Health Rights Advocacy

Her words, “Today, we conducted tests on journalists for them to know their blood pressure, sugar level, and Hepatitis B status. This will make them aware of their health, and know preventive measures and treatment if need be.

“Due to the nature of their profession. Journalists move across various locations in search of news, they ought to know their health status which will make them conscious of what to eat and the need for protected sex.

“Journalists are always on the move which could make their blood pressure rise, so they must constantly check. Also, they eat outside the home most times which they must be conscious of, after knowing their sugar level.”

Another medical practitioner at the event, Dr. Opeyemi Odetunde enjoined journalists not to feel reluctant to engage in regular body checkups regardless of their current health status.

Dr. Odetunde stressed that the prevention and treatment of hypertension and diabetes must be taken seriously and handled by medical experts.

The chairman of the Health Committee, Osun NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, Mr. Ayobami Agboola said a routine body examination is essential for journalists to be more agile in carrying out their assigned tasks.

He urged his colleagues who took part in the tests and were recommended for further medical attention to immediately commence treatment.

He also appealed to journalists not to be careless with their health, and to rest as much as they can.