More than 500 residents of Elburgon in Nakuru County have received free medical services during a community outreach aimed at addressing the growing burden of chronic illnesses among vulnerable populations.
The initiative, organized by St. Joseph’s Hospital in partnership with medics from across Nakuru, focused on screening and early detection of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly among the elderly living in informal settlements.
The medical camp, led by Dr. Florence Wairimu, placed special emphasis on conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, and respiratory diseases—ailments that account for a significant proportion of deaths among older adults.
Participants underwent a range of free tests, including blood pressure and blood sugar checks, heart screenings, ECG and ECHO tests, breast examinations, and urinalysis. Health experts say such early screenings are critical in identifying diseases before they become life-threatening.
Dr. Wairimu raised concern over the rising trend of self-medication among residents, noting that many people purchase drugs from chemists without proper diagnosis.
She warned that delayed treatment—particularly for conditions requiring specialized care such as dialysis—often leads to severe complications and long-term health risks.
“We organized this outreach after noticing an alarming number of elderly patients seeking treatment late, often after relying on self-medication. Early diagnosis can significantly improve outcomes,” she said.
Health professionals also linked the rise in NCDs to poor lifestyle choices and unbalanced diets common in the area. Residents were advised to adopt healthier eating habits and incorporate physical activity into their daily routines.
Dr. Wairimu cautioned against over-reliance on commonly available foods such as cabbages and Irish potatoes, urging the community to diversify their diet to include balanced nutrients.
She explained that excessive salt intake, low potassium levels, and high consumption of fats and sugars are key contributors to hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases.
Residents who benefited from the camp welcomed the initiative, calling for more regular outreach programs to improve access to healthcare services.
Samuel Githae and Joyce Nyambura noted that community-based clinics play a vital role in early diagnosis, reducing hospital congestion, and making healthcare more affordable and accessible.
Catherine Wanjiru, a medic at St. Joseph’s Hospital, emphasized the importance of preventive care, urging residents to abandon the culture of self-medication.
“Most of these diseases can be managed effectively through regular check-ups. Buying drugs without professional guidance is a dangerous habit that is silently harming many people,” she said.
According to the World Health Organization, unhealthy diets and physical inactivity contribute to nearly 30 percent of preventable illnesses and deaths linked to non-communicable diseases worldwide.
Conditions such as hypertension significantly increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, kidney disease, and other life-threatening complications.
The Elburgon medical camp highlights the growing importance of grassroots health interventions in tackling chronic diseases. With increased awareness, regular screenings, and improved access to care, health experts believe communities can significantly reduce the burden of preventable illnesses.