Urgent Health Alert Ministry of Health Calls for Widespread Screenings
New data from the Ministry of Health has exposed a worrying trend: a large number of Kenyans unknowingly suffer from serious health conditions, underscoring the critical need for health screenings during the festive season.
The report, released by the Department of Public Health and Professional Standards, revealed that:
- Over 260,000 Kenyans, out of 22.5 million screened, were unaware they had diabetes.
- 577,000 individuals, out of 15 million screened for hypertension, required specialized medical treatment.
Silent Health Risks
Health PS Mary Muthoni stressed the importance of regular check-ups, pointing out that many Kenyans neglect their well-being due to demanding schedules.
“We face a critical issue where people are not prioritizing their health or are too busy to address it. This negligence could have dire consequences,” said Muthoni during a visit to Kibra.
In Kibra, Community Health Promoters (CHPs) conducted door-to-door health assessments, a key initiative supported by both national and county governments. Despite the festive period, CHPs remain committed to screening individuals for common conditions and enrolling them in social health insurance programs.
Alarming Maternal Health Gaps
The screenings also highlighted concerns in maternal health. Of the 339,000 pregnant women identified:
- 132,000 had not attended antenatal clinics, putting both mothers and unborn children at risk.
The Ministry of Health has pledged to clear all outstanding stipends for CHPs by December 31, ensuring the program continues effectively.
Take Action Now
The government is urging Kenyans to take advantage of the free health screenings, emphasizing the importance of early detection in preventing severe health complications.
“Addressing these issues now could save lives and significantly reduce the burden on our healthcare system,” the Ministry advised.
Take the first step toward better health—participate in the free screenings during this festive season!
