By Bunmi Yekini
The Lagos State Ministry of Health supported by the Saving One Million Lives Programme for Results (SOMLPforR) has launched a four-day residential training programme for medical officers in secondary health facilities in the state. The training which aims to equip participants with the skills to improve patient care and enhance prevention efforts commenced on Monday, November 25, 2024, at Orchid Hotel, Lekki.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr. Victoria Egunjobi, Director of Disease Control at the Lagos State Ministry of Health, emphasized the urgency of addressing viral hepatitis, describing it as a “public health priority.” She stated: “This training will equip medical officers with adequate knowledge and skills to manage patients with viral hepatitis in general hospitals across Lagos State.
It aligns with the WHO target of eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030 and demonstrates our commitment to quality healthcare for every Lagosian.”
Dr. Egunjobi also highlighted the state’s comprehensive strategy, which includes community awareness campaigns, screenings, and vaccinations to curb the disease’s spread. She called on healthcare workers to share the knowledge gained with colleagues and communities, reinforcing that “prevention is always better.”
Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho, SOMLPforR Coordinator, shared her personal connection to the cause, recalling the loss of her sister-in-law to hepatitis. She called the disease a “silent killer” and stressed the importance of training programs to address knowledge gaps among healthcare workers. “Many doctors and healthcare workers are not well-versed in managing viral hepatitis. This training bridges that gap and empowers participants to be advocates for early detection and proper care,” she said.
Dr. Erinosho also praised Lagos State for pioneering hepatitis screening and vaccination for healthcare workers, stating: “This initiative not only protects our workforce but also sets an example for others to follow.”
The training featured renowned facilitators, including Prof. Casimir Omuemu, a Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist from the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, and Dr. Rufina Igetei, a Consultant Gastroenterologist at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).
Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist from the University of Benin Teaching Hospital
Prof. Omuemu highlighted the dire consequences of untreated hepatitis, warning that one in 12 people may unknowingly harbor the infection. He urged healthcare workers and the public to prioritize early testing and vaccination.
“You cannot live next door to a silent killer and feel comfortable. Early detection is less painful and more affordable than dealing with complications like cancer or liver failure,” he said.
Dr. Igetei echoed this sentiment, pointing out that Hepatitis B is a leading cause of liver disease in Nigeria. She emphasized that awareness and early intervention are key to reducing its burden.
“If every doctor talks to their patients about knowing their hepatitis status, we can significantly lower the rates of chronic infections and their devastating consequences,” she said.
Participants, drawn from Lagos State General Hospitals, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to improve their skills. They noted that the training will enhance service delivery and reduce mortality associated with the disease.
The training, which will end on Thursday, November 28, 2024, is expected to cascade into further workshops for laboratory scientists and other healthcare personnel in the state.