The Kasserine Regional Health Administration, in collaboration with the Basic Health Cluster, organized an open day for diabetes and high blood pressure screening on November 14, 2026. This initiative was part of the celebration of World Diabetes Day, which falls on November 14th every year. The event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and prevention of diabetes and its complications.

The open day included free clinics supervised by a medical and paramedical team. The clinics offered blood sugar level tests, glycated hemoglobin index measurements, and blood pressure checks. A awareness campaign was also organized to highlight the importance of adopting a balanced diet and regular physical activity to prevent type 2 diabetes and limit its spread.

According to nutrition specialist Marwa Masoudi from the Kasserine Regional Health Administration, the open day saw significant turnout from citizens. This reflects growing awareness of the importance of regular screening and monitoring of health indicators. Masoudi noted that some attendees who showed high blood sugar or blood pressure levels were referred to specialized medical services for further examination and necessary follow-up.

Masoudi added that these clinics would not be limited to this initiative but would continue in the coming period at various basic health centers in the governorate. This aims to bring health services closer to citizens and expand access to screening and prevention programs.

The nutrition specialist emphasized that type 2 diabetes is no longer confined to older age groups but is increasingly prevalent among younger age groups, starting from 25 and 30 years old. This necessitates expanding awareness campaigns to include various social segments, including parents, youth, and children, and instilling healthy behaviors from an early age.

Several beneficiaries praised the importance of these health initiatives, which provide citizens with the opportunity to undergo free preliminary examinations and learn about their health status. They called for intensifying screening campaigns and organizing them regularly in open spaces to ensure they reach the largest number of citizens.

These health initiatives highlight the importance of intensifying field screening campaigns and bringing them closer to citizens, while strengthening health education and promoting a culture of prevention. This contributes to early detection of infections and reducing health complications associated with diabetes.

Key points

  • The open day included free clinics offering blood sugar level tests, glycated hemoglobin index measurements, and blood pressure checks.
  • Type 2 diabetes is increasingly prevalent among younger age groups, starting from 25 and 30 years old.
  • The initiative aims to promote early detection and prevention of diabetes and its complications.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.