FCT community benefits from free hepatitis, HIV, BP screening

The Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), FCT Branch, has marked the 2026 World Biomedical Laboratory Day with a free medical outreach for residents of Jiwa community in the Abuja Municipal Area Council of Abuja.

The outreach, led by the branch chairman, Musa Wazani, brought essential diagnostic and counselling services directly to the community as part of activities commemorating the global event.

This year’s theme, announced by the International Federation of Biomedical Laboratory Science (IFBLS), is “Biomedical Laboratory Scientists Promoting Sustainability in Clinical Diagnostics,” highlighting the role of laboratory professionals in strengthening healthcare systems and advancing sustainable diagnostic practices.

During the exercise, licensed medical laboratory scientists carried out free screenings for hepatitis, HIV, blood glucose levels, and blood pressure, while also offering health education on disease prevention, early detection, and general wellness.

Wazani explained that Jiwa was deliberately selected for the outreach to foster closer collaboration with the community and its traditional leadership.

He noted that the programme also honoured the Emir of Jiwa, Idris Musa, who serves as the lifetime patron of the AMLSN FCT Branch.

“We deliberately chose Jiwa Emirate to celebrate this year’s event with His Royal Highness, who has consistently supported health initiatives within and beyond his domain,” he said.

He commended the monarch for his contributions to public health and described him as a strong advocate for community wellbeing.

Wazani further acknowledged the support of AMLSN FCT leadership, noting that their technical expertise, mobilisation efforts, and volunteer contributions were key to the success of the outreach.

Observed annually on April 15, World Biomedical Laboratory Day was established in 1996 by the IFBLS to recognise the critical role of laboratory scientists in healthcare delivery, with experts noting that laboratory results inform a significant proportion of clinical decisions.

Residents who benefited from the outreach expressed appreciation, saying the initiative provided access to early detection services and increased awareness of preventive healthcare.

The AMLSN FCT Branch reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining similar outreach programmes aimed at improving access to healthcare in underserved communities across the FCT.