Ref: CHB/Flash/2007/53                                             Date: May 08,2008

CHB NEWS FLASH


 

The Central Health Board (CHB) recently organized a Major Health Screening Program for the K.S.I. Jamaat members in Lindi and Mtwara. The main objective was to determine the prevalence of disease and early diagnosis of associated risk factors, especially in such constituents where access to health care and services are limited. 

This is a second successful campaign of its kind following one recently held in Zanzibar.  

CHB with a team of 12 members departed for Mtwara on Friday 25th April, 2008. The team comprised of a lady and a gent doctor, Board members and volunteers, Jaffery Medical Students Association (JAMSA) 4th year medical students, as well as Sheikh Tahir Ridha - invited guest of CHB.

While CHB carried the necessary medical equipments and accessories required for the screening, Lindi and Mtwara Jamaats kindly provided for convenient screening facilities as well as other arrangements including food and accommodation for the team. 

A 12 hour journey from Dar by road saw the team arrive for a short break in Lindi, before proceeding to Mtwara. Hasnain Bhai Manji-President of Lindi Jamaat graciously welcomed the CHB team and also accompanied them for the onward trip to Mtwara. 

Upon arrival, the Mtwara Jamaat led by the President, Roshan bhai Ladha courteously welcomed the CHB team.

The CHB Vice Chairman, Al Hajj Mohsin Manji and Dr. Imran Hassam were given the podium to address the Jamaat on the importance and benefits of such a program, as well as sensitize individuals to health related issues, especially those prevalent in Khoja Communities. 

Health Screening was conducted the next day-Saturday 26th April, 2008.

ECG, Blood Pressure, BMI, Blood Glucose tests, and doctor’s evaluation were conducted on site. Individual blood samples were also collected, stored and transported back to Dar-es-Salaam. These samples will be run and analyzed at Ebrahim Haji Charitable Health Centre for Full Blood Picture, Renal Function as well as Lipid Profile. Thalassaemia tests for young children, youths and recently married couples will also be carried out.

Overall, 31 people (18 males and 13 females) turned up for the screening.
 

On the same afternoon, CHB team proceeded back to Lindi where arrangements had been made to conduct screening for its members. 

After Maghrib prayers, participants arrived on site, where identical tests and procedures were carried out. Screening lasted until midnight, and saw 21 participants undergo tests and doctor’s consultation. 

Results of the screening will be communicated to the individual members who participated in the CHB Major Health Screening Program. 

CHB profoundly appreciates Lindi and Mtwara Jamaats’ hospitality and warmness. They made our team’s stay a most comfortable and memorable one.  

CHB acknowledge and appreciates the support provided by the Central Medical Board (CMB) of Dar es Salaam Jamaat and Ebrahim Haji Charitable Health Centre, this made our mission a great success.  

A big thank you also goes to the doctors, nurses and volunteers who wholeheartedly gave their time and efforts in extending services to our community brothers and sisters, while it was a grueling bus trip, the experience gained on this three day trip was worth every moment of it.

 

“Community’s health – CHB’s priority”