Health experts, government authorities, and stakeholders in Kigezi Region are urging the public to adopt proactive health-seeking behaviors to manage non-communicable diseases (NCDs) at early stages, helping prevent severe complications and death. This call was made during a press conference today, held at Kirigime Guest House in Kirigime Ward Southern Division Kabale Municipality in anticipation of the upcoming National World Diabetes Day celebrations on November 14, 2024, at Kabale Municipal Stadium.
The campaign is led by Hon. Dr. Nicholas Thaddeus Kamara, Kabale Municipality Member of Parliament for Kabale Municipality and Chairperson of the Parliamentary Forum on Non-communicable Diseases. Speaking during the press conference, Dr. Kamara emphasized the financial and health burdens of diabetes, describing it as a chronic condition that requires consistent daily care. He stressed the importance of educating the public and lawmakers on NCDs, stating that As Chairperson of the Parliamentary Forum on NCDs, he ensure that colleagues in Parliament are well-informed so they can advocate for preventive measures and better healthcare policies.
Dr. Kamara acknowledged government efforts to fund the fight against NCDs but called for further investments to match those provided to the Uganda Heart Institute and Uganda Cancer Institute, noting the disproportionate impact of NCDs on the life expectancy in Kigezi. He revealed that according to the Ministry of Health, one in four Ugandans has hypertension, and NCDs are the leading cause of death among those over 40.
Kabale District Health Educator Dr. Alfred Besigensi highlighted the tendency for residents to seek medical help only when diseases have progressed, often resulting in severe complications such as kidney failure, vision loss, and more. He reported that 26,916 cases have been recorded in Kigezi health facilities, with 19 related deaths, despite the availability of diabetes treatment services at Health Center III and IV facilities nationwide.
Adding to the presser, Dr. Geoffrey Anguyo from Kigezi Healthcare Foundation (KIHEFO) Clinic urged the public to prioritize routine health check-ups and reduce consumption of high-fat foods and sugary beverages, such as pork and sodas, which are known to exacerbate diabetes and other NCDs.
This year’s World Diabetes Day, celebrated under the World Health Organization theme “Diabetes and Well-being” for 2024-26, and this year’s Uganda theme “Empowering Individuals, families and communities for better Diabetes Life in Uganda” will feature a walk through Kabale town and exercise sessions aimed at promoting physical activity.
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