Anambra State in collaboration with the Carter Centre, has launched a statewide programme offering free hydrocelectomy surgeries to residents, targeting a condition linked to neglected tropical diseases.
The intervention is being conducted simultaneously across the state’s three senatorial zones. Enugwu-Ukwu General Hospital is serving patients in the central zone, while Ekwulobia General Hospital and Umueri General Hospital are covering the southern and northern zones, respectively.
According to the state’s Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Desk Officer, Dr Emmanuel Obikwelu, the initiative is focused on individuals aged 15 and above, with particular attention to adult males who are disproportionately affected by hydrocele.
Hydrocele, often associated with neglected tropical diseases such as lymphatic filariasis, remains a significant public health challenge in parts of Nigeria. Dr Obikwelu noted that while children are not the primary target of the current programme, data on younger patients will be collected to inform future interventions.
“This effort is aimed at reducing the burden of the disease among adults, while also laying the groundwork for addressing cases in younger populations,” he said.
At Enugwu-Ukwu General Hospital, resident doctor Dr Patrick Anisiobi confirmed that the four-day outreach would provide surgeries entirely free of charge, from initial consultations through to the procedures themselves.
“A total of 20 patients have been scheduled for surgery today, and we are prepared to accommodate more,” he said, adding that the initiative is designed to expand access to essential healthcare services for those unable to afford the cost of treatment.
Hospital officials say the programme is expected to deliver both immediate relief to patients and broader public health benefits. A senior staff member, Loretta Okonkwo, stated that comprehensive pre-surgical assessments, including laboratory tests, are being conducted to ensure patient safety.
She also commended the partnership between the state government and The Carter Centre, describing it as a critical step toward improving healthcare access and outcomes in the region.
Early reports from the procedures at Enugwu-Ukwu indicate no recorded complications, emphasising the capacity of local healthcare workers. However, officials acknowledge that greater public awareness is needed to ensure more affected individuals across the state can benefit from the programme.