World Hepatitis Day: Genesis Foundation rolls out free hepatitis screening in Ogbomoso, citizens urged to know their status

Bolaji DAVID

The Genesis Social Impact Foundation, in conjunction with Genesis Medical Diagnostics Center, Ogbomoso, has announced a free hepatitis screening program for residents of Ogbomoso and surrounding communities in commemoration of the World Hepatitis Day 2026.

The screening exercise will take place on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at Genesis Medical Diagnostics Centre, Ogbomoso, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The initiative aims to increase public awareness, promote early detection, and reduce the burden of undiagnosed viral hepatitis within the community. The screening will be offered to members of the public at no cost.

Viral hepatitis is a major public health concern because an infected person may live with the condition for several years without experiencing noticeable symptoms. During this period, progressive liver damage may occur silently.

When hepatitis remains undetected or is poorly managed, it may result in serious complications, including chronic liver disease, liver scarring, cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.

The organizers, therefore, urged members of the public not to wait until symptoms develop before undergoing screening.

According to the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Genesis Medical Diagnostics Center, Victor Oyetayo Olawuyi, the outreach program reflects the organization’s commitment to bringing essential healthcare services directly to the people.

Olawuyi said many individuals living with hepatitis remain unaware of their status because they have never been screened.

“Hepatitis can remain silent for many years, while serious damage is gradually taking place in the liver. Unfortunately, some people only discover their condition after complications have developed,” he said.

“Through this free screening program, we want to remove the financial barrier that may prevent members of the community from knowing their status. Early detection creates an opportunity for proper medical evaluation, monitoring, treatment, and prevention of further transmission.”

Olawuyi explained that knowing one’s hepatitis status is an important step towards protecting personal health, family members, and the wider community.

He added that people who test negative may also benefit from appropriate health education and guidance on preventive measures, including hepatitis B vaccination where clinically indicated.

The organizers particularly encouraged pregnant women, healthcare workers, individuals who have previously received blood transfusions, individuals who have undergone surgical or dental procedures, and those who have never been screened to attend the program.

People who share razors, clippers, needles, or other sharp objects, as well as individuals living with someone diagnosed with hepatitis, were also advised to participate.

However, the screening is open to all members of the public, regardless of whether they currently have symptoms or consider themselves at risk.

The Genesis Social Impact Foundation also called on traditional rulers, religious organizations, community development associations, youth groups, market associations, schools, transport unions, healthcare professionals, and media organizations to support the campaign by mobilizing residents for the exercise.

The Foundation noted that community participation remains essential to reducing the burden of hepatitis and correcting misinformation surrounding the disease.

It further urged members of the public to avoid stigmatizing people living with hepatitis, stressing that the condition requires accurate diagnosis, professional medical care, continued monitoring, and social support.

The free screening program forms part of the broader humanitarian and public health activities of the Genesis Social Impact Foundation, which focuses on improving community health, supporting vulnerable populations, and promoting accessible preventive healthcare.

Genesis Medical Diagnostics Center, established in 2016, provides medical laboratory diagnostic services, fertility and reproductive health investigations, public health education, professional training, and community outreach services.

Operating under the motto, “Your Health, Our Priority,” the center has continued to promote accurate diagnosis, quality healthcare, and early disease detection.

The organizations urged residents to take advantage of the free screening, emphasizing that early detection can save lives.

SCREENING INFORMATION

Programme: Free Hepatitis Screening

Date: Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Venue: Genesis Medical Diagnostics Center, Ogbomoso

Organizer: Genesis Social Impact Foundation in conjunction with Genesis Medical Diagnostics Centre

Cost: Free

### Get tested. Know your status. Protect your liver. Protect your future.