The House of Representatives has adopted a motion seeking to introduce a new health guideline for passengers to undergo a routine medical check before boarding a flight in the country.
The House after its resolution in Tuesday’s plenary, called on the Ministry of Aviation to ensure that passengers at the Airport check their Blood Pressure and Sugar level before boarding.
This followed the adoption of the motion moved by Kalejaiyi Adeboye Paul, the member representing Ajeromi Ifelodun Federal Constituency, Lagos State,
The lawmaker’s motion was titled,” Need to make Provision for free High Blood Pressure and Sugar Level Check Desks at Airports,” Vanguard reported.
Paul noted that air travel could be physically demanding and stressful for many passengers.
He said that these factors, combined with the potential health risks associated with long flights and varying environmental conditions made it essential to prioritize the health of individuals passing through our airports.
He said air travel had become increasingly accessible to a larger portion of the population, adding that the stress associated with travel, coupled with the sedentary nature of long flights could impact the health of individuals.
The Rep Member said this particularly concerned those with pre-existing conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
He said it was imperative to prioritize the health of individuals traveling long through our airports, adding that this notion aimed to ensure their access to essential.
He said by establishing free high blood pressure and sugar levels check desks at all airports, the country would promote early detection and preventive care for conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.
According to him, regular monitoring of these vital health parameters will enable travelers to seek medical intervention and prevent potential complications.
He noted that the provision of these check desks would demonstrate the commitment of the country to public health
promotion.
“This will send a powerful message that we prioritize the well-being of our citizens and visitors by making healthcare services easily accessible regardless of their travel schedules.”
Adopting the motion, the House urged the Ministry of Aviation to collaborate with relevant healthcare professionals and organizations to establish and operate High Blood Pressure and sugar levels check desks at airports across the country.
The House also urged the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to put adequate medical facilities in Nigerian Airports to forestall sudden death from high blood pressure and diabetes among others.
The lawmakers further urged the desks to be staffed with trained healthcare personnel who can accurately measure blood pressure and sugar levels.
Members said there was a need to provide basic counseling and refer individuals to appropriate
medical services, if necessary.
