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AMPATH to carry out mass screening in Trans Nzoia

The  Academic  Model  Providing  Access to Health care (AMPATH) is  set  to  carry  out  mass  community diseases screening in Trans Nzoia County  starting  next  week.

The  organization will be screening four diseases among them hypertension, diabetes, and cervical cancer. The initiative aims at detecting the diseases early for prompt management.

The  Organizations Coordinator in Trans Nzoia, Obed  Limo said that late diagnosis of the disease led to complications and increased the cost  of  medication.

Limo  said that the programme which is supported by the World Bank in conjunction with Ministry of health, county government of Trans Nzoia  and Moi Teaching and Referral hospital will use trained community health workers to carry out the screening exercise.

Limo  was speaking at Kitale Museum on Friday when  the Trans Nzoia County Commissioner (CC), Samson Ojwang launched the programme.

He  said that the screening was informed by a survey that was conducted last year on risks of chronic diseases in the region and which listed  tobacco and alcohol as the main risk factors of diabetes and hypertension.

According  to Limo the survey also revealed that there is low uptake of health insurance among county residents.

He  said that at least 1.8 per cent of residents above 18 years were diabetic with Kiminini Sub County leading in high cases of both diabetes and hypertension.

The  CC called on residents to enroll with NHIF, adding that residents spent a lot of money on medical bills. He said for universal healthcare to be achieved, residents must register with NHIF.

“We  need a paradigm shift in our lifestyle. People must be encouraged to exercise and also eat healthy,” he advised.

The  forum brought together leaders who included chiefs and their assistants who will be involved in mobilizing residents for screening.

By  Pauline  Ikanda

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