By Gloria Osemudiamhen
The Coordinator, Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has urged women across the state to make regular exercise, healthy eating and routine medical checks part of their lifestyle to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
Anani made the call as part of activities marking the 2026 World Physiotherapy Day, while leading a public awareness campaign and health walk from the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) to Uselu Market in Benin City.
She was represented at the event by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Markets, Hon. Juliana Ikharo.
The campaign, organised by the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy, Edo State Chapter, was held under the theme: “The Role of Physiotherapy and Physical Activity in the Prevention, Management and Rehabilitation of Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke.”
Describing the theme as timely, Anani said cardiovascular diseases and stroke remained major public health concerns globally and were increasingly affecting women, particularly during pregnancy and after menopause.
She noted that the conditions could negatively impact women’s health, independence and quality of life, stressing the importance of prevention, early detection and timely medical intervention.
According to her, regular physical activity promotes heart health, strengthens the body, helps control hypertension and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.
She also highlighted the important role of physiotherapy in the recovery and rehabilitation of stroke survivors and people living with cardiovascular conditions, particularly in restoring movement, balance, muscle strength and independence.
Anani urged women to prioritise their health by staying physically active, eating balanced diets and monitoring their blood pressure and blood sugar.
“I encourage you to make time for regular physical activity, eat balanced diets, monitor your blood pressure and blood sugar, and seek medical attention when necessary. Please do not ignore persistent headaches, unusual weakness, chest pain, difficulty in breathing or other warning signs that may indicate serious health conditions.”
She reaffirmed the commitment of the Edo State Government, under Governor Monday Okpebholo, to initiatives that promote disease prevention, physical fitness and improved access to rehabilitation services across the 18 local government areas.
Anani said the government remained committed to improving healthcare delivery and strengthening preventive health measures across the state.
She commended the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy and other healthcare professionals for their efforts towards promoting public health and protecting the wellbeing of women in Edo State.
UBTH Calls for Regular Health Checks
The Chief Medical Director of UBTH, Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu, represented by the Deputy Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee, Research and Ethics, Prof. (Mrs.) Adebola Ehizele, congratulated physiotherapists worldwide on the occasion.
Ehizele noted that 2026 marked the first phase of a four-year global campaign on non-communicable diseases, stressing the importance of physical activity, mental engagement, technology and allied interventions in physiotherapy.
She commended the Edo State Government, through the Office of the First Lady, for supporting the campaign and urged health outreach teams to provide participants with practical and tailored health guidance rather than relying solely on generic messages.
The Director and Head, Department of Physiology, UBTH, Dr. Taiwo Oyewumi, also stressed the need for regular checks of blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol levels.
“Prevention is better than cure. Stroke may not only cause paralysis; it can also affect thinking and drive,” Oyewumi said.
He pledged UBTH’s continued support through expert counselling and prompt referrals, while encouraging residents to maintain active lifestyles.
Oyewumi also commended Anani for her commitment to promoting women’s health and disclosed that similar outreach programmes would be extended to more markets across the state.
Market Women Embrace Health Campaign
Speaking on behalf of the market women, Mrs. Margaret Idehen appreciated the Office of the First Lady and the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy, Edo State Chapter, for bringing the campaign directly to the market.
Idehen described the programme as enlightening and urged market women to embrace regular medical checks, exercise and rehabilitation services as part of efforts to safeguard their health and wellbeing.
The campaign featured health talks as well as free blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol checks, alongside other health services provided by physiotherapists.
