The Department of Health on Monday conducted free mass screening for diabetes and hypertension at the Masii health facility to commemorate the World Diabetes Day.
Mwala Sub County Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Coordinator Elizabeth Kisilu said the screening was aimed at creating awareness on prevention and management of the non-communicable diseases.
“We have noticed an upsurge of diabetes cases especially among the older generation. Screening helps at diagnosing the disease early for easy treatment and management,” said the NCDs coordinator while at the same time appealing to residents to avoid sedentary lives and refined foods to keep diabetes at bay.
She urged those already diagnosed with the disease to eat a well-balanced diet rich in proteins and vegetables.
On hypertension, Kisilu asked residents to go for regular checkup saying the disease has no symptoms.
She noted that smoking, alcohol and obesity are some of the predisposing factors to hypertension.
“Normally hypertension is best dictated through screening, however some patients may experience headaches,” noted the NCDs coordinator.
