An apple a day can keep the doctor at bay, but health awareness can keep one’s health in peak condition every day. With this in mind the Glenridge Clinic in Glencoe is hosting a health awareness campaign. The campaign will be held outside Glencoe Spar on August 1, and is scheduled to start at 8am.
“This campaign will be aimed at creating awareness and encouraging healthy living,” Nurse Mhlungu explained. During this campaign male medical circumcision will be discussed at length. The community will be informed of male medical circumcision is and how is it performed. Bookings will also be made for men interested in having the procedure performed by a specialist.
This information is vital in the nationwide fight against illegal male circumcision, which has claimed the lives of 50 boys in Mpumalanga and Limpopo, 30 in the Eastern Cape and has left 300 boys hospitalised nationwide.
HIV testing and counselling will also be rendered during the campaign. Tests for the following illnesses will also be carried out for the public: diabetes, hypertension (better known as high blood pressure), pap smears and audiology tests.
Nurse Mhlungu stated that, “Various mobile clinics will be available during the campaign for testing of the different illnesses, hence ensuring maximum privacy.
” Eyecare and dental care will also be on the agenda. This means the public will not only be advised on eye and dental care, but also receive free eye tests and referrals for spectacles as well.
Teeth extractions will also be performed during the campaign. Nurse Mhlungu added that, “Condoms will be distributed in an attempt to encourage safe sex and prevention of sexually-transmitted diseases.”
The campaign will conclude with a rehabilitation drive, whereby walking sticks will be handed to those who need them. Nurse Mhlungu encourages the public to partake and take a step towards healthy living.
