Written by Agnes Mwangi & Dan Orero

In collaboration with the Nairobi Women Hospital, the HIV/AIDS Committee at CEMASTEA organized a one-day medical camp on HIV-AIDS, Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and mental wellness. The 3rd December event was attended by CEMASTEA staff, Karen Medical Training College (KMTC) students, and neighbouring communities. Main activities included expert talks on non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cancers, hypertension and mental wellness. Participants also had their vitals such as blood pressure, Body Mass Index (BMI) and blood glucose levels checked upon which those with concerns got a one on one consultation with a doctor.

A staff at CEMASTEA staff having his vitals checked

While making her opening remarks, Director CEMASTEA urged everyone to live responsibly and adopt healthy body, mind, and soul habits as this reduces the risk of contracting some NCD’s diseases and help one live a healthy lifestyle.

Ms Agnes Mwangi, Chair of, HIV Committee at CEMASTEA and event organizer, noted that NCDs are becoming a growing concern, especially with people living with HIV. Research has shown that while one may present with NCDs before HIV infection, the NCDs are made worse by HIV, prompting the need to incorporate management of other chronic conditions into HIV care. A doctor from Nairobi Women Hospital and a group of nurses gave a talk on HIV-AIDS, mental health, and healthy living. A healthy diet and constant exercise were cited as the top priorities for a person willing to live healthily and is particularly important for people who spend most of their time working in offices.