More than one-third of individuals shy away from medical checkups, harboring the notion that ignorance is bliss when it comes to their well-being.
Embedded in this belief system are echoes of unfavorable past experiences, evaluations, or even anecdotes shared by friends and relatives. The sentiment resonates: what you don’t know won’t hurt you.
On the opposing spectrum, there are those who play a waiting game, hoping that time will heal their ailments, avoiding medical scrutiny in the process. Yet, the reality remains clear – regular medical checkups are not negotiable; they can be life-saving.
Medical Checkups Rhetorics
Why is the act of having routine medical checkups indispensable for maintaining good health?
For a myriad of individuals, fear becomes a formidable barricade against undergoing medical examinations. Whether it be the fear of the unknown or the constructs of belief systems cultivated over time, many are daunted by the prospect of a doctor’s visit.
Financial concerns also contribute to the hesitancy, as some view healthcare expenses as an unnecessary burden. However, what transpires when subtle warning signals emanate from the body, and one chooses to turn a blind eye?
Statistics present a chilling reality – more than 57.5 percent of young people walk around with high blood pressure, while a staggering 72 million Nigerians battle hypertension, with only 25 percent receiving treatment.
These figures unravel a web of undetected health issues that linger beneath the surface.
The fear of receiving life-altering or distressing news acts as a significant deterrent, preventing individuals from seeking medical attention. Yet, is ignorance the root cause of this reluctance?
Amidst these fears, a seasoned pharmacist, Pharmacist Kayode Fasuba, offers a compelling perspective. He emphasizes the value of thorough medical check-ups, advocating for awareness of one’s current health status, early detection of potential health threats, and proactive measures to maintain well-being.
Numerous medical experts align with this stance, asserting that regular checkups diminish the risk of falling prey to illnesses. They serve as informational milestones on the journey to well-being and, crucially, alleviate the financial burden associated with advanced medical conditions.
Is Medical checkup A Must?
While individuals embark on their journeys of self-care through medical checkups, a plea is directed towards the government to play a pivotal role.
Adequate funding and the prioritization of primary health centers are proposed as essential steps to fortify the health sector.
Yet, amid these macro-level interventions, one cannot forsake personal responsibility. Basic health checks, encompassing blood pressure, sugar levels, weight, and eye examinations, serve as a foundational step toward self-awareness and healthier lifestyles.
Prevention indeed prevails over cure. So, the question echoes: Are you checking yourself today?
The silence surrounding health concerns must be shattered, replaced by the proactive pursuit of well-being through regular medical checkups.
Written by Titilayo Ilesanmi
