Donate Now

Category: Health

AFHEG Foundation launches an AMR board game Superbugs Clash to revolutionize health Gamified Learning in Uganda

AFHEG Foundation launches an AMR board game Superbugs Clash to revolutionize health Gamified Learning in Uganda

The AFHEG Foundation has launched Superbugs Clash Kampala Edition, a unique board game to raise awareness on antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This innovative tool seeks to simplify complex health concepts, making them engaging and accessible to a wider audience, especially youth in Uganda.

In a world where traditional health education often struggles to engage diverse audiences, gamified learning emerges as a transformative solution. The African Health Grid Foundation (AFHEG) is at the forefront of this innovative approach, leveraging the power of games to simplify complex health issues and make learning not only accessible but also engaging.

Antimicrobial resistance, or AMR, arises when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites adapt to resist the medications used to treat them, leading to ineffective treatments and prolonged illness. AMR has become a global health crisis, claiming approximately 1.27 million lives every year and posing a severe threat to public health. Through Superbugs Clash, AFHEG hopes to address this issue by promoting understanding and inspiring behavioural change in Ugandan communities.

Phillip Mwebaza, the CEO of the AFHEG Foundation, emphasized the transformative impact of gamified learning in addressing such critical health challenges.

“With games like Superbugs Clash Kampala Edition, we provide an enjoyable means to communicate complex health topics, effectively breaking down comprehension barriers,” Mwebaza stated. “Our mission is to cultivate a health-literate community equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for making informed health decisions.”

The launch event drew an enthusiastic crowd of over 50 individuals, including artists, content creators, public health professionals, mental health advocates, and students. Attendees were immersed in a variety of activities, including games, virtual reality (VR) experiences, and therapeutic art sessions. These interactive formats not only showcased AFHEG’s commitment to innovative health education but also illustrated the collective dedication to immersive and holistic approaches to learning.

Emmanuel Rukundo from Keepers XR highlighted the pivotal role of VR in educational settings, stating, “By allowing participants to step into different health scenarios, VR transforms learning from passive observation to active engagement.” This hands-on experience fosters a deeper connection with health challenges, making the educational process more impactful and empowering individuals to advocate for healthier communities. The integration of VR technology into educational initiatives exemplifies the potential for innovative approaches to enhance health education, making it more memorable and effective.

Rodney Kiggundu, founder of Kiggundu Art Studio, also emphasized the broader impact of creative innovations like Superbugs Clash. He noted that art forms, including therapeutic and digital art, are vital avenues for raising awareness about health issues.

“Art has the power to connect with people on a deeper level, making health information more relatable and engaging,” Kiggundu remarked.

Caroline Tusabe, co-founder of the AFHEG Foundation, reiterated the organization’s commitment to spreading health information through innovative educational strategies. “We are dedicated to ensuring that vital health information reaches as many people as possible, and gamified learning is a key component of this mission,” she stated.

Through collaborative efforts and groundbreaking approaches, organizations like AFHEG are showcasing the potential of creative educational initiatives to address pressing health challenges. AFHEG aims to inspire individuals to adopt sustainable health behaviours by harnessing the power of gamified learning and innovative storytelling, ultimately fostering a resilient and proactive community prepared to tackle health challenges head-on. As more games and educational tools are developed, the future of health education looks brighter, offering new avenues for engagement and empowerment in the quest for healthier futures.

 

 

AFHEG Foundation Launches Smarty and the Health Defenders Club at Kasangati High School

AFHEG Foundation Launches Smarty and the Health Defenders Club at Kasangati High School

On April 19, 2024, the AFHEG Foundation launches Smarty Health Info Hub and the Health Defeders Club at Kasangati High School, a significant event marks a new chapter in health and climate education for the students of Kasangati and the wider community.

Smarty is a cutting-edge, web-based platform designed to engage students in learning about health and climate change through interactive and gamified content. The platform offers a variety of multimedia resources, including videos, podcasts, quizzes, and games, making learning both fun and effective.

The event kicked off with vibrant Zumba dance sessions, followed by engaging SDG games provided in collaboration with the Media-Challenge Initiative. Over 700 students from Senior One to Senior Six participated in peer sessions within their respective classes.

Some of Kasangati High School’s best dancers join the instructor to lead the students in Zumba sessions

The day concluded with the donation of 200 sanitary pads, hygiene materials, and the planting of five trees, emphasizing the foundation’s commitment to both health and environmental sustainability.

The team at AFHEG together with the school administration and students planted one of the trees.

After the physical activities and lecture sessions, students were taken through an online session where they accessed and logged into the Smarty platform to explore its various features and games. Among the games available are Fight Virus, Hero Doctor, and Puzzles, alongside informative sections such as health courses, podcasts, and health explainer animations.

A student is onboarded onto the Smarty platform by Phillip Mwebaza, CEO, AFHEG Foundation.

Ukasha Ssemambo, one of the students who successfully logged into the platform, shared his experience, highlighting Hero Doctor as the most engaging game. He explained that the game requires players to assemble different parts of a doctor to solve puzzles, providing an enjoyable yet educational experience.

In his opening remarks, Phillip Mwebaza, CEO of the AFHEG Foundation, highlighted the importance of innovative educational tools in empowering the younger generation.

“I am happy that the AFHEG Foundation is launching Smarty and the Health Defenders Club today. Smarty is more than just a learning platform; it’s a step towards building a health-literate community. By making education interactive and engaging, we hope to inspire students to take active roles in promoting health and sustainability in their communities,” Mwebaza said.

In conjunction with the launch of Smarty, the AFHEG Foundation also launched the Health Defenders Club at Kasangati High School. This club will be an integral part of our health-literate community-building initiative, providing a forum for students to engage in health talks and workshops. The club empowers students to become advocates for healthier lifestyles within their schools and communities.

Some of the members of the Health Defenders Club pose for a photo moment.

Teachers at Kasangati High School expressed their enthusiasm for the platform, noting its potential to transform traditional teaching methods. “Smarty offers a fresh and exciting way to teach complex subjects. It caters to different learning styles, ensuring that every student can benefit,” one teacher commented.

The Head Teacher of Kasangati High School also shared his thoughts, encouraging students to utilize the new platform. “Smarty comes at a perfect time with the new secondary school curriculum encouraging research and self-directed learning. I urge all students to take full advantage of this innovative tool to enhance their knowledge and skills.”

Students eagerly interacted with Smarty’s content, exploring topics such as nutrition, mental health, and climate change. Their feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the platform’s engaging and user-friendly design.

The launch of Smarty at Kasangati High School is a testament to the AFHEG Foundation’s commitment to improving health literacy and climate education. By integrating technology and innovative teaching methods, Smarty aims to make learning accessible, enjoyable, and impactful for students.

As the event concluded, Phillip Mwebaza reiterated the foundation’s dedication to expanding Smarty’s reach. “This is just the beginning. We look forward to seeing Smarty make a difference in more schools and communities across the region,” he said.

The AFHEG Foundation thanks Kasangati High School for their warm reception and is excited to continue this journey towards a healthier, more informed future.

Check out Smarty; here

World AIDS Day 2023: Let Communities Lead in the Fight Against HIV/AIDS

Every year, on the 1st of December, the world unites to commemorate World AIDS Day, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about HIV and AIDS. This day serves as a call to action, urging communities to take a leadership role in addressing the challenges posed by this ongoing public health issue.

The theme for World AIDS Day 2023 is ‘Let communities lead,’ emphasizing the effectiveness of programs and initiatives when driven by the most impacted communities. Despite significant progress achieved through medical research, increased access to treatment and prevention, and global advocacy, critical challenges persist in achieving the proposed 2030 goals.

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), HIV remains a significant global public health concern, with some countries witnessing increasing trends in new infections that were previously on the decline. The key to progress lies in empowering communities and promoting scientific research and innovation in HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and care worldwide.

Key Facts:

  • HIV has claimed 40.4 million lives so far, with ongoing transmission in all countries globally.
  • An estimated 39.0 million people were living with HIV at the end of 2022, with two-thirds in the WHO African Region.
  • In 2022, 630,000 people died from HIV-related causes, and 1.3 million people acquired HIV.
  • There is no cure for HIV, but with access to effective prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care, it has become a manageable chronic health condition.
  • Global organizations, including WHO, the Global Fund, and UNAIDS, have aligned strategies with the SDG target of ending the HIV epidemic by 2030.

Targets for 2025:

95% of all people living with HIV should have a diagnosis.

95% of those diagnosed should be taking lifesaving antiretroviral treatment (ART).

95% of PLHIV on treatment should achieve a suppressed viral load.

In 2022, these percentages were 86%, 89%, and 93%, respectively.

Overview:

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is an infection that attacks the body’s immune system. AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is the most advanced stage of the disease. HIV targets the body’s white blood cells, weakening the immune system and making it easier to get sick with diseases like tuberculosis, infections, and some cancers.

The virus is spread through the body fluids of an infected person, including blood, breast milk, semen, and vaginal fluids. It is not spread by casual contact like kisses, hugs, or sharing food.

HIV can be treated and prevented with antiretroviral therapy (ART), but untreated HIV can progress to AIDS, often after many years.

AFHEG Foundation stands committed to the theme of ‘Let communities lead’ in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Our call to action centers on empowering communities through education, awareness, and access to essential HIV services.

Unlocking Youth Potential: AFHEG Foundation’s Digital Health Week Twitter Space

In a virtual rendezvous that felt like a casual conversation, AFHEG Foundation and Transform Health collaborated to discuss essential topics—health, education, and a delightful surprise for the youth. Unfolding on Twitter during Digital Health Week 2023, this online gathering featured five remarkable guests sharing their insights and advice in a manner accessible to everyone.

Henry Mugenyi, a health communicator from NBS, underscored the role of media in health education. He elaborated: “Through the powerful mediums of TV and radio, we have the opportunity to serve as conduits of health education. It is our responsibility to ensure the dissemination of accurate health information, which is crucial for the well-being of everyone in our community.”

Dr. Mutunga Shadrack cautioned against self-medication, emphasizing the importance of consulting professionals. He advised:

“In matters of health, it’s crucial to seek professional advice. Self-medication can often exacerbate health conditions, and consulting a doctor is the safest route to understanding and addressing our health needs.”

Rebecca Cherop emphasized the power of teamwork among young people in creating digital health solutions. She urged:

“Collaboration among our youth is a powerful catalyst for change in the digital health landscape. Let’s harness our collective ideas, working as a unified team to craft innovative solutions that enhance health outcomes for everyone.”

Kizito Julius, addressing mental health in the digital age, reminded everyone:

“Navigating the vast sea of content on social media can be overwhelming. Prioritizing our mental well-being is crucial in this digital era. Take breaks, set boundaries, and be mindful of your mental health.”

Kevin Kasoma advocated for a positive shift in media narratives. He suggested:

“Our role in the media is not just to highlight health problems but to also showcase solutions. Positive news has the potential to significantly contribute to creating a community that is both happier and healthier.”

Phillip Mwebaza, Managing Director of the AFHEG Foundation, shared a friendly piece of advice:

“When seeking health guidance, always lean towards professionals like doctors. While friends offer support, experts provide the best advice tailored to individual health needs.”

He also teased an upcoming initiative, saying, “Smarty is designed to be a gamified platform where learning about health and climate becomes an enjoyable and engaging journey, providing comprehensive knowledge in a way that resonates with our youth.”

Empowering Self-Care: WHO Unveils Competency Framework for Health and Care Workers

Today, on Self-Care Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) has unveiled a groundbreaking resource – a competency framework – aimed at empowering health and care workers to support people’s self-care endeavors. Self-care interventions empower individuals to manage diseases, prevent illnesses, and access critical health information.

“Self-care interventions are a vital component of health systems, offering expanded options for delivering healthcare services, especially for the underserved,” stated Dr. Pascale Allotey, Director of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research and HRP at WHO, a dedicated midwife. “Health and care workers play a pivotal role in helping people understand and utilize self-care approaches and tools – whether for self-testing pregnancy, COVID-19, or HIV, managing fertility, or self-monitoring chronic health conditions. These resources aim to support them in this noble endeavor.”

Approximately 3.6 billion people, half of the global population, lack access to essential health services. WHO strongly recommends integrating self-care interventions in every country as a critical step toward achieving universal health coverage. It empowers individuals to have more control over their well-being, broadens healthcare options, and facilitates easier healthcare accessibility.

Various self-care interventions encompass self-administered contraceptives, COVID-19 and human papillomavirus (HPV) screening, HIV and other sexually transmitted infection tests, blood pressure monitoring, pregnancy and ovulation tests, and techniques to manage stress, anxiety, substance use, and mental health disorders.

Moreover, during major disruptions to national health systems, such as health emergencies, self-care interventions offer a vital alternative to the usual facility-based services.

The Self-care competency framework comprises three essential components: competency standards, a knowledge guide tailored for health and care workers, and a curriculum guide for planning and delivering education and training.

The competency standards define ten key competencies for health and care workers to facilitate self-care in their clinical practice. These competencies emphasize people-centredness, decision-making, effective communication, collaboration, evidence-informed practice, and personal conduct.

“We invite countries, health and care worker education institutions, and employers to integrate these standards into education and practice, and to invest in a competent health and care workforce capable of providing people-centred, quality, evidence-based health services,” stated Dr. Jim Campbell, Director of the Health Workforce Department at WHO.

WHO defines self-care as the ability of individuals, families, and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and cope with illness and disability. The new publications, jointly developed by WHO’s Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research and the Health Workforce Department, align with the implementation of WHO’s Guideline on self-care interventions first published in 2019 and updated in 2022.

This Self-Care Day, let’s celebrate the empowerment of individuals and healthcare workers in embracing self-care as a powerful tool for healthier lives and resilient communities. Together, we can foster a world where healthcare is accessible to all, regardless of their circumstances.

Fact Check: Debunking Hypertension Myths and Understanding the Facts

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a medical condition characterized by persistently elevated blood pressure levels in the arteries.

Blood pressure is measured using two values: systolic pressure (the pressure when the heart contracts) and diastolic pressure (the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats).

Normal blood pressure is typically defined as values below 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure consistently exceeds 130/80 mmHg.

Now let’s examine and fact-check the statements made earlier regarding hypertension:

1. Myth: Hypertension only affects older individuals.

Fact Check: This statement is false. Hypertension can affect individuals of all age groups, not just older adults. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global burden of hypertension has doubled over the past 30 years, affecting 1.28 billion adults worldwide. While age is a risk factor for hypertension, younger individuals can also develop high blood pressure due to factors such as genetics, obesity, lack of physical activity, an unhealthy diet, and excessive alcohol consumption.

2. Myth: Hypertension is harmless and does not require treatment.

Fact Check: This statement is incorrect. Hypertension is a serious medical condition that can lead to severe health complications if left untreated. According to the WHO, high blood pressure is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and contributes to a significant number of deaths worldwide. It can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other related health problems. Treating and managing hypertension through lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthier diet, increasing physical activity, and, if necessary, taking prescribed medications, is crucial for reducing the risk of complications.

3. Myth: Hypertension is primarily caused by stress.

Fact Check: This statement is misleading. While stress can temporarily elevate blood pressure, the primary risk factors for hypertension are diverse. The WHO highlights that age, genetics, obesity, lack of physical activity, high-salt diet, and excessive alcohol consumption are significant contributors to the development of hypertension. Stressful situations may lead to temporary spikes in blood pressure, but long-term hypertension is influenced by a combination of lifestyle and genetic factors.

4. Myth: People with hypertension will experience noticeable symptoms.
Fact Check: This statement is partially true. Hypertension is often asymptomatic or “silent,” meaning individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms. The WHO reports that almost half of the people with hypertension are unaware of their condition. Regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial for early detection, as hypertension is commonly identified during routine check-ups or screenings. This emphasizes the importance of proactive monitoring and preventive measures for the timely management of hypertension.

5. Myth: Medication is the only treatment option for hypertension.

Fact Check: This statement is incorrect. While medication may be necessary in some cases, lifestyle changes play a significant role in the management of hypertension. The WHO recommends lifestyle modifications as an essential part of hypertension control. These include adopting a healthier diet, reducing salt intake, maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, limiting alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking. These lifestyle changes, combined with prescribed medication when needed, can effectively control blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications associated with hypertension. Hypertension Factsheet.

Note; It is important to rely on accurate information when it comes to health-related topics like hypertension. By understanding the facts, debunking myths, and adopting a proactive approach to hypertension management, you can take control of your health and reduce the risk of associated complications. Regular monitoring, lifestyle modifications, and appropriate medical care are key elements in effectively managing hypertension and promoting overall cardiovascular well-being.

 

Ugandans to benefit from Pfizer’s expanded access to medicines and vaccines

Pfizer, a leading global pharmaceutical company, has announced that it has significantly expanded its commitment to offer the full portfolio of medicines and vaccines to lower-income countries through its An Accord for a Healthier World initiative.

Uganda is proud to be among the five initial launch countries where Pfizer is working closely with the government and local health experts to identify how the Accord can most effectively support national health goals and impact patient lives in our country.

This transformative initiative is focused on greatly reducing health inequities that exist between many lower-income countries like Uganda and the rest of the world. Since its launch in May 2022, Pfizer has committed to providing access to all its patented medicines and vaccines available in the U.S. or European Union on a not-for-profit basis.

This means that Ugandans will have access to a broader and more immediate scope of consistent, high-quality products that can help improve the health and well-being of our citizens.

Pfizer has listened and understood the specific health needs of Uganda to identify how the Accord can most effectively support our national health goals.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Pfizer has provided professional healthcare education and training to support the delivery of the medicines and vaccines, and in November, Pfizer deployed its first Global Health Team to Uganda to help identify opportunities for long-term supply chain optimization.

This expansion of Pfizer’s product offering, combined with continued efforts to help address the barriers that limit or prevent access, will help us achieve and even expedite our vision of a world where all Ugandans have access to the medicines and vaccines they need to live longer and healthier lives.

Understanding Kidney Stones: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis And Prevention

Kidney stones are a common and often painful problem that affects around 500,000 people each year. While they can be quite painful, understanding their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and prevention can help you to avoid them.

Today, we discuss the causes and symptoms of kidney stones, how they are diagnosed, and how you can prevent them. So, whether you are already dealing with kidney stones or want to avoid them in the future, this post will provide you with the information you need.

A urine sample in a transparent tube, with greenish white stones visible inside

 

Preventing And Detecting Kidney Stones

Over 500,000 people visit emergency rooms for kidney stone problems every year.

Kidney stones are hard, mineral-based objects that can form inside the kidneys. They’re common and can affect any part of the urinary tract, including the bladder and urethra. In fact, over 500,000 people visit emergency rooms every year for kidney stone problems. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent and detect kidney stones before they become a problem.

The most common cause of kidney stones is diet – eating too many foods that contain minerals and salts can lead to their formation. Excess body weight is also a major factor in their development. Certain medical conditions – such as high blood pressure – can also increase your chances of developing kidney stones. Other factors that may contribute to their formation include supplements and medications, as well as drinking too much alcohol or caffeine.

Symptoms of kidney stones may include sharp pains in different parts of your body (backside, lower abdomen or groin), feeling a constant need to urinate, pain while urinating, cloudy or bad-tasting urine, and blood in the urine (hematuria). If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment options.

Some diagnostic tests used to detect kidney stone presence include blood testing; x ray or ultrasound scans; analysis of past Stones passed through straining urine samples collected over 24 hours; and sometimes even a CT scan or MRI scan. The goal is to find out which type of stone you have so that the best treatment plan can be put in place. Treatment options may include surgery if necessary plus various types of medication such as diuretics or calcium supplements. It’s important to follow all treatment recommendations carefully so that you avoid any further problems with your kidneys!

All In All

Kidney stones are a painful but common problem that can affect anyone. Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and prevention of kidney stones can help you avoid or manage them if you already have them. Eating a healthy diet with plenty of fluids, avoiding excess minerals and salts in your diet, maintaining a healthy body weight, and avoiding supplements and medications that may increase your chances of developing kidney stones are all important steps to take. If you experience any symptoms associated with kidney stones, make sure to seek medical attention so that they can be properly diagnosed and treated.

Uganda; 100,000 new Asthamic cases reported annually for the past three years

UGANDA – According to research conducted by the Makerere University Lung Institute, two out of every ten young people between the ages of 12 and 15 exhibit symptoms of asthma, a respiratory health condition that usually shows symptoms including coughing, wheezing, and difficulty in breathing.

Since 2018, the institution has examined 895 secondary school students within Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono districts. Of those, 177 were found to have asthmatic symptoms.

Graph showing the number of students with asthmatic symptoms

Dr. Rebecca Nantanda, a consultant pediatrician and lung specialist who oversaw the study’s execution, said that the majority of people who tested positive for asthma were ignorant despite exhibiting symptoms in 33.9% of cases.

64 of the students exhibited significant symptoms, but none of their assessments were correct, and several of them were receiving care for other conditions.

The institute had previously analyzed children and adults to discover how prevalent the illness was, but data on youths had been lacking.

According to recent data, merely less than half of persons in this age range who were aware of their condition had it under control, with few episodes and a reduced need for treatment.

The Ministry of Health (MOH) was informed of these findings, and officials confirmed that medical professionals lacked sufficient training mostly in asthmatic diagnosis.

Asthma diagnosis is still done by health professionals using what they learned in medical school, according to Dr. Frank Mugabe, the Principal Medical Officer in charge of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) at the Ministry of Health. This is true despite evolving methods of diagnosis and treatment.

In agreement with the survey’s findings, he claims that more people are developing asthma, as evidenced by the fact that over 100,000 new cases have been reported annually for the past three years, according to their statistics.

He states that they registered 133,000 instances in 2020 and 124,000 in 2021 as a result of COVID-19-related limitations. He asserts that as of the end of October this year, there had been 106,000 instances reported, and he anticipates that they may top the numbers from the year 2020.

All age groups had the greatest prevalence of asthma in Kampala, West Nile, and South Western Uganda. Mugabe explains this by pointing to significant levels of air pollution.

Five more nations, including Malawi, South Africa, Ghana, and Zimbabwe, participated in the same research, Achieving Control of Asthma in Children in Africa (ACACIA).

About Us

AFHEG Foundation is a non-profit in Uganda building a health-literate community for inclusive health, arts and health, and climate health. We empower youth with reliable knowledge on health, environment, and climate impacts through advocacy, creative storytelling, arts programs, and gamified learning.

Facebook Twitter Instagram Linkedin Youtube

© AFHEG FOUNDATION | All Rights Reserved.

AFHEG Foundation