Doctors who attended to more than 2,000 people, largely comprising drivers, touts, and stage managers, during the two-day medical camp at the Aga Khan Walk, Nairobi, raised serious health concerns among those working in the matatu industry.
Dr Elizabeth Wamwea, the team leader of the medical camp team, said that the largest percentage diagnosed and treated had non-communicable diseases, including diabetes and hypertension.
She said those with diabetes often had existing conditions affecting their eyes.
The number of attendees with eye problems was estimated to be 40 per cent, a worrying condition considering that drivers depend on their sight to transport thousands of Kenyans on the roads.
"In addition to treatment, about 10-15 per cent require different referrals to see specialists for various reasons, such as surgeons and ENT specialists. Approximately 20 per cent need to enhance their commitment to clinics because many were diagnosed with diabetes or hypertension but have not been consistent with medication," she said.
"We emphasized the importance of adhering to treatment for chronic diseases to avoid fatalities like kidney failure. Less than 1 per cent will need further intervention, such as surgery. Specifically, one individual will need to undergo cataract surgery."
Dr Wamwea called for consistent health promotion activities in Nairobi and other counties to enhance preventive and promotive health measures for Kenyans across sectors.
Nairobi county clinical officer in charge of medical camps Geoffrey Tumaini said through the medical camp, they realized a significant number of those in the matatu industry had sight-related problems, affecting their daily work.
"We had one case where a driver was unaware that his right eye had vision issues, and he testified that he had been involved in accidents involving his right side. We identified this during the camp, and he is scheduled for corrective surgery," Tumaini said.
He added that matatu workers also faced respiratory problems due to their early morning to late-night work shifts, leaving no time for seeking medical attention, and exposing them to chronic illnesses.
Tumaini said the medical camp was a great investment in their lives.
He also said checking for diabetes was critical, noting that the condition could lead to eye problems like diabetic retinopathy.
"Many people with diabetes have never had their eyes checked, and this was an opportunity for them to undergo examinations to check if the nervous system was affected by diabetes. This camp was a great cause, and we thank OSDP for organizing it," Tumaini said.
The medical team comprised Community Health Promoters, county government nurses and doctors among others.
The medical camp was organized by the office of the spouse of the Deputy President (OSDP) in line with the vision of 'A Dignified Future for Vulnerable Populations,' who comprise more than 90 per cent of those employed in the matatu sector.
Dr Grace Kibathi, Senior Medical Officer, said, "Communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension are often caused by prolonged sitting and poor diet. We recommend exercise and healthy eating. Additionally, most individuals in the matatu industry haven't visited a hospital in years and lack information about their health."
Dr Kibathi urged those in the matatu industry to enrol in NHIF to enjoy its benefits.
"We've encountered individuals with cataracts and many drivers who are short-sighted. This is a crisis, and they need more optical reviews and glasses. We also had a centre for mental health, addressing issues exacerbated by alcohol and drug abuse. These individuals require therapy," said Dr Kibathi.
Furthermore, urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted infections, and new cases of diagnosed HIV among those unaware of their status were identified, emphasizing the necessity for such medical camps and screenings.
Zubeida Ali, CEO of Federation of Drivers and Conductors Kenya, highlighted that the PSV industry has directly employed more than three million Kenyans. She appreciated the medical camp as a unique initiative since independence.
"We are delighted to partner with Mama Mboys (Pastor Dorcas) and add value to our members, who serve thousands of Kenyans every day. 200 doctors served during the two-day medical camp," Zubeida said.
Over 25 matatu saccos participated.
Pastor Dorcas opened the medical camp on Wednesday.
She urged those working in the matatu industry to shun alcoholism and drug abuse and ensure the safety of their clients on the road.