Dr Cyril Oshiomhole Leads Edo Men’s Wellness Drive, Says ‘Water, Rest and Routine Checks Save Lives

Dr Cyril Oshiomhole Leads Edo Men’s Wellness Drive, Says ‘Water, Rest and Routine Checks Save Lives

Habiba Sam

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Cyril Oshiomhole, has taken the lead in Edo State’s push for better men’s health, urging men to make water intake, exercise, adequate sleep and regular medical screenings part of their daily routine to boost productivity and wellbeing.

Dr Oshiomhole spoke recently in Benin at the Executive Men’s Wellness Session organized by the Edo State Health Insurance Commission, EDOHIC, to mark Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month. The session, themed “Men’s Health Matters: Taking Responsibility for a Healthier Future”, brought together health experts and stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, Dr Oshiomhole emphasized that science has consistently proven that staying well-hydrated is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent kidney stones and other health complications. 

“My message to Edo men today is simple: drink more water, rest well, exercise, eat better and fast wisely. Water is life. Many health challenges can be reduced if we maintain proper hydration,” he said. The commissioner also recommended water fasting, noting that research shows fasting can have proven health benefits when done correctly.

He encouraged men to open up about their mental health, socialize more, and avoid bottling up stress. “Pay attention to your mental health, socialize, pour out your mind. Your health is your responsibility,” he added.

Other speakers at the session backed his call. Resource person Dr Rasheed Abassi warned against prolonged sitting and excessive salt consumption, linking both to prostate cancer and high blood pressure. “Prolonged sitting is the new smoking. Walk 15 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes at night. It lowers blood pressure and reduces the risk of diabetes and prostate cancer,” Abassi said.

The Director General of EDOHIC, Dr Augusta Ikpea-Enaholo, also advocated for routine health screenings like blood pressure and diabetes tests, plus prostate examinations and stress management. She urged Edo men to register for the state’s health insurance scheme, which she said is currently free and gives access to primary healthcare.

Participants described the session as eye-opening. Mr Benjamin Oje thanked the organizers, saying the event exposed him to health habits he previously ignored.

Dr Oshiomhole concluded that the Okpebholo administration’s investment in health infrastructure makes it easier for Edo men to choose healthier lifestyles, stressing that “health is wealth, and we cannot minimize that.”