The NDC Youth in Ashaiman Constituency recently demonstrated their commitment to public health by organizing a health screening program for residents of the Lebanon community in Ashaiman. This initiative, held at Ashaiman Lebanon, provided free medical care and screenings to a large number of individuals. Marking their second collaboration with Kuwait Clinic, the youth wing’s partnership highlights their ongoing efforts to promote wellness within the constituency. By focusing on preventive health measures, they aim to improve the overall quality of life for local residents, especially those linked to the NDC grassroots.
Salifu Zakaria, the program’s main organizer and National Security Officer for Golden Jubilee Tema Port, emphasized the importance of health and fitness among his community, particularly NDC supporters. He revealed that Direct Aid also contributed to the initiative by supporting the free distribution of medication during the screening. Zakaria’s vision is to see his people maintaining good health and hopes to hold a reorganization of the campaign next year to ensure the momentum continues. Although the health screening primarily targets NDC supporters, it is open to everyone interested in getting a thorough health checkup.
During an interview, Dr. Issah Addae, the Health Superintendent at Kuwait Clinic, provided insights into the health conditions uncovered during the screening. He noted that about 90% of the cases detected were related to hypertension, with a smaller percentage—1%—diagnosed with malaria. Among those with hypertension, 78% were already aware of their condition, though some had stopped taking their prescribed medications. Dr. Addae took the opportunity to counsel these patients to resume their treatments. For those newly diagnosed, he educated them on how to manage hypertension effectively to avoid complications.
Dr. Addae stressed the importance of regular medical check-ups, urging people to visit hospitals and clinics every six months regardless of whether they feel ill. He explained that many illnesses, including hypertension, may not present symptoms initially but can be managed successfully if identified early. This proactive approach to health is essential in reducing the burden of chronic diseases and improving long-term outcomes for individuals and communities alike.
The Ashaiman NDC’s health screening program is a commendable effort to raise health awareness and provide essential medical services to grassroots populations. Their partnership with Kuwait Hospital and support from Direct Aid underline the impact community-driven initiatives can have on public health. By combining political grassroots efforts with medical expertise, this program not only identifies health issues early but also fosters a culture of wellness and prevention across Ashaiman Constituency
Source: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku