The Coordinator, AIDS Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming Unit (AGDMU), , said that there is a rapidly increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as breast and cervical cancer, diabetes, blood pressure and mental issues. She added that mental health issues among staff and students can sometimes manifest as absenteeism, alcoholism, hypertension or stress.
“Sensitization of staff and students on these health issues is one of our key mandates in health control. We want to have a working population of healthy people who can deliver,” said Prof. Mengich
Prof.Gladys Mengich speaking about the health program
Prof. Mengich pointed out that the health program provides an opportunity for staff and students to gain access to other services including gender issues, counselling and disability mainstreaming. She affirmed that the health team at MMUST, composed of doctors, counsellors and social workers, is highly professional, taking into consideration the vitality of consent and confidentiality on matters concerning individual health issues. In her final remarks, she encouraged staff and students to be responsible for their health by knowing their HIV/AIDS status and screening for the non-communicable diseases.
A health team, led by the University’s Medical Officer, Dr. Patrick Wanguche, conducted screening of the non-communicable diseases at the University’s clinic. The team expressed gratitude for the support by the University Management, particularly in fast-tracking of medical equipment used for the screening and tests for HIV and biometrics (weight, height and BMI).
The health screening has been conducted in partnership with other health service providers such as the Lurambi Subcounty AIDS and STI Coordinator, Ms. Zipporah Ombogo, Ministry of Health- Kakamega County and other referral hospitals such as Kakamega General Hospital.
MMUST Staff undergoes examination by the screening team at the University Clinic
This initiative by the University will certainly curb the high prevalence of non-communicable diseases among staff and students.
