Hernia is a medical condition that occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or surrounding tissue wall, often resulting in a visible lump or bulge under the skin. While hernias can occur in various parts of the body, they are most commonly found in the abdomen.
This condition is particularly prevalent among residents, especially men, in the Nabdam District of the Upper East Region of Ghana, where hernias have impacted many lives, including those of elderly residents.
One such individual is 60-year-old Yinboka Zubil, who has lived with a hernia for over 30 years. Zubil recounted that for decades, he endured the physical discomfort and social stigma associated with the condition, unaware that it was a manageable medical issue rather than a curse, as some had led him to believe. “I never knew it was a condition that could be treated,” Zubil shared, reflecting on the misinformation that often surrounds health conditions in rural areas.
However, in 2023, Zubil’s life took a positive turn when he underwent successful hernia surgery organized by Dr. Mark-Kurt Nawaane, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Nabdam. Since the surgery, Zubil has experienced significant relief and has encouraged his 13-year-old son to participate in a similar health screening exercise organized by the MP to prevent future health complications. The success of his surgery has given him hope for the next generation and underscored the importance of accessible healthcare in the district.
Naandome Bulunbil, a 33-year-old father of six, is another resident eagerly awaiting treatment. Bulunbil has lived with a hernia for nearly six years, a condition that has severely affected his self-esteem. “Whenever I am with my friends, I feel less confident because of my condition,” Bulunbil admitted. The news of Dr. Nawaane’s health intervention brings him hope that he will soon regain his confidence and lead a healthier life. He expressed gratitude to the MP, adding that such initiatives provide great relief to the people of Nabdam.
Since he was elected MP in 2016, Dr. Mark-Kurt Nawaane has prioritized healthcare for his constituents. Each year, he organizes free health screenings and surgeries, with a particular focus on hernia treatment. His goal, as he stated, is to reduce the prevalence of hernias and other life-threatening diseases that disproportionately affect the people of Nabdam. “This year’s exercise will last for one week and is expected to treat close to 500 patients with various health conditions,” the MP announced.
Despite the scope of the initiative, Dr. Nawaane revealed that much of the funding comes from his personal resources. He explained that support from the MP’s Common Fund and the National Health Insurance Scheme has been limited, requiring him to step in financially to ensure the continuity of this life-saving project. His commitment to the health of his constituents remains unwavering, even in the face of financial challenges.
Dr. Nawaane also hinted at the possibility of expanding the health initiative to the neighboring Talensi and Bolgatanga East districts, following requests from the parliamentary candidates of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in those areas. This expansion would bring much-needed medical services to more communities, helping to address widespread health issues in the region.
However, Dr. Nawaane urged residents to pay attention to their health and take preventive measures against conditions like hernia. “We must be vigilant in our lifestyles to avoid such diseases,” he advised, stressing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. This ongoing health initiative is a beacon of hope for residents like Zubil and Bulunbil, who have endured years of pain and stigma.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Moses Apiah|Bolgatanga
