- The clinical officer said non-communicable diseases can be managed effectively and patients can lead normal lives if diagnosed and treated promptly.
- Nyamine CBO, established in 2020, has already reached out to more than 1,000 residents through their social responsibility activities.
Image: LAMECK BARAZA
Men in Bondo, Siaya county, are hesitant to seek medical treatment due to fear, a clinical officer at Bondo Hospital has said.
Davin Adhiambo expressed concern over the rise of non-communicable diseases among men and women. However, men are particularly reluctant to visit health facilities.
She addressed journalists in West Sakwa ward in Bondo during a medical camp organised by Nyimine Empowerment Community Based Organisation.
The clinical officer said non-communicable diseases can be managed effectively and patients can lead normal lives if diagnosed and treated promptly.
“Today, I have encountered numerous cases of high blood pressure and diabetes among our patients. Many of them are unaware of their ailments or are apprehensive about seeking further treatment at health facilities,” Adhiambo said.
She urged the residents of Bondo to use the health facilities in their vicinity to prevent premature deaths from non-communicable diseases, especially among men.
“Since this morning, I can count the number of men who have visited the camp for medical attention. This is in stark contrast to the women and children who have thronged the South Sakwa chief’s office for the commendable medical camp sponsored by Nyimine,” Adhiambo said.
Tracy Asasta, the project officer of Nyimine CBO, said their focus is on reaching out to everyone, including men who are hesitant to visit health facilities, starting from the lowest unit of government.
Although their primary focus is on reproductive health among young mothers, they have expanded their scope to include men, the elderly, and children to ensure a healthy community.
“For women, the doctors have primarily focused on cervical cancer, family planning, HIV/Aids, and treatment of common diseases in the lakeside region like malaria,” Asatsa said.
Her organisation is committed to ensuring a healthy society in Bondo, regardless of one’s social and economic status.
Nyamine CBO, established in 2020, has already reached out to more than 1,000 residents through their social responsibility activities aimed at addressing healthcare issues in Bondo.
“Today, we were only targeting 300 residents, but it appears that the numbers might exceed our target. This indicates that the government also needs to participate in such activities,” Asatsa said.
Aside from focusing on reproductive health, they also cater to people with disability or HIV/Aids, enabling them to access medical attention within their villages.
“We work closely with all Bondo health facilities to identify those who need support, especially those with disability or HIV/Aids in various areas,” she noted.
Claris Abwao, the project officer, urged men not to shy away from seeking medical attention.
“Such a mindset could lead to losing our men to illnesses that could have been managed at any medical facility,” Abwao said.