FCTA Offers Free Hepatitis Screening in Abuja Outreach

On Wednesday, during a community outreach event in Garki Village, Abuja, Dr. Adeolapo Fasawe, the Mandate Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Authority (FCTA), pledged to eliminate barriers to hepatitis care and announced free screening tests. Represented by Dr. Teresa Nwachukwu, Director of Public Health at FCTA, the outreach, organized by Garki Hospital, aimed to provide free hepatitis B screening, HIV testing, syphilis testing, malaria testing, health education, and one-on-one counseling.

The event commemorated World Hepatitis Day, themed ‘Let’s Break It Down,’ focusing on removing obstacles to healthcare access. Dr. Fasawe emphasized the importance of integrating hepatitis care into primary health care centers and ensuring vaccine availability.

Dr. Igbiti O. Justice, a Consultant Physician and Gastroenterologist, highlighted the significance of community outreach in raising awareness and reducing stigma associated with hepatitis.

He advocated for a holistic approach linking screening with education on lifestyle changes to address related health issues.