Wellness programme for men gains momentum
“When it comes to prevention and early detection, men's health often takes a back seat to women's health."
Kwa-Thema – The Saturday Wellness Initiative for Men has been growing and going strong.
This is according to the Kwa-Thema Community Health Centre operational manager Thembi Mgidi.
The community initiative started in December 2019 in collaboration with CanSurvive Cancer Support, and both organisations continue to urge residents to attend the sessions.
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“Up to now the turnout has been incredible; we are delighted with the progress we have made.
“When it comes to prevention and early detection, men’s health often takes a back seat to women’s health.
“This is mainly due to men being reluctant to seek medical attention, putting off routine check-ups and also delay seeing a healthcare provider for symptoms of a health problem.
“Since the inception of the campaign, it has allowed us to engage with men of different ages and backgrounds.
“We have also been able to assist and offer medical advice to a lot of people,” she explained.
The initiative was also launched at Nokuthula Ngwenya Clinic last month.
CanSurvive Cancer Support chairperson Ronnie Nkabinde explained how the initiative has helped residents.
“We were slightly sabotaged by Covid-19 in 2020, which resulted in the campaign starting slowly.
“However, now it has picked up incredibly well.
“Many lives have been saved as many men with serious illnesses have gotten the treatment or have been referred to the necessary health departments.
“We are thankful to all those who have been to the clinic and the family members and friends who have been referring people to come.”
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He added that they would like to see more young men attending the programme.
“It is great to see the youth coming out in numbers for check-ups.
“It shows the work we are doing is having a positive impact.
“We shall be gradually introducing other programmes, which will be made public at the appropriate time.
“We are very happy because we are realising our objective of dragging men to the clinic and saving their lives,” he said.
They extended their gratitude to the clinic manager and staff for spearheading the project.
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