NGO conducts free Hydrocele surgery for 500 patients in Kano
An NGO, Health Awareness and New Development Services (HANDS), has conducted hydrocele surgery for 500 patients in 16 Local Government Areas of Kano to provide much-needed relief to the patients.
The team lead of HANDS in Kano, Mr Adara Priestly, made this known during Lymphatic Filariasis project coordinating meeting on Saturday in Kano.
Priestly explained that the patients underwent successful surgeries and received necessary interventions.
He noted that individuals suffering from lymphedema and hydrocele faced significant societal stigma.
“In response, we are providing counseling and psychosocial support to help them navigate and overcome this stigma,” he said.
The team lead said that Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention Project in Kano State aim to address the challenges posed by NTDs through a comprehensive approach focused on morbidity management and disability prevention.
According to him, the project seeks to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by NTDs by providing access to essential healthcare services, treatment, and support.
“Despite efforts to combat NTDs in Kano State, there are still gaps in the existing healthcare system.
“These include limited access to healthcare services, inadequate resources for disease surveillance and treatment, and lack of awareness among the population about preventive measures.
“Addressing these gaps through collaborative efforts between organisations like HANDS and local health authorities is crucial to effectively combatting NTDs and improving the overall health outcomes in Kano State,” he said.
He further said that the objective of the project was to ensure access to hydrocele surgeries and Lymphoedema management services for individuals in 16 LGAs through the Kano state hospital management board to improve their quality of life.
“To also provide Lymphedema services and psychosocial support to affected individuals and caregivers in communities through the NTDs units,” he added.
Earlier, Coordinator, NTD in Kano, Dr Abubakar Zarewa, said the meeting was organised to engage other stakeholders involved in the dissemination campaign.
Zarewa explained that the purpose of the meeting was to familiarise stakeholders with the process, challenges, and successes of the project in the state.
He noted that the campaign had been successful throughout the year, and they were set to begin the schistosomiasis multiple drug administration on Monday.
“We will train the patients receiving the drugs and also implement a five-day campaign.
“We are at the peak of the project, as it will conclude by the end of March. We will evaluate the number of cases treated, the surgeries performed, and the ongoing activities,” he added.
Zarewa further stated that the project would train healthcare workers on managing Lipedema patients and subsequently pass this knowledge to other clinical health workers.
In a remark, Deputy Director, Public Health, Kano State Ministry of Health, Dr. Abdullahi Ahmed expressed determination of the state to partner with stakeholders in the eradication of the diseases in the state.
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