The West Rand District Health Department (WRDH) marked February as Health-awareness Month at Thusanang Clinic in Westonaria on Tuesday February 8.

According to Zoliswa Nzeku, WRDH spokesperson, members of the community were warned about the risks of underlying health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular disease that would cause people to fall severely ill should they contract the coronavirus.

We aimed at raising awareness and educate people about the benefits of physical activities, healthy eating, safe sexual practices, and the dangers of smoking,” Nzeku added.

She said their aim was to empower and educate patients and community members on how best to prevent certain diseases.

Nzeku added that the programme also focused on encouraging the use of condoms and regular screening for HIV, diabetes and hypertension.

“More of these small facility-based screenings, awareness and educational activities are to follow on February 18 at other clinics in Westonaria. It is hoped that in time such interventions will assist to reduce the scourge of non-communicable disease,” Nzeku said.