UNFPA supports Tamale fistula prevention campaign

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) would soon start a campaign aimed at reducing fistula conditions in northern Ghana through pro-active and preventive measures.

Fistula is caused by prolonged obstructed labour, is said to affect about two million women and girls worldwide and is linked to poverty, malnutrition, poor health service, early child bearing and gender discrimination.

Dr Akwasi Twumasi, the Northern Regional Director for GHS, said this  on Tuesday in Tamale when the United Nations Population Fund’s (UNFPA) Country representative, Dr. Bernard Coquelin, presented a vehicle to the fistual centre in Tamale to support fistula eradication in the region.

He said early detection and transportation of affected women to the nearest health facilities for quick medical attention was crucial to the country’s quest to eradicating the disease in the next five years.

Dr Twumasi said the center had treated over 307 mothers of their fistula conditions and called for more support from corporate institutions.

Mrs Miriam R. Iddrisu, who represented the UNFPA Country Director, said the donation was part of efforts by her outfit towards Fistula Prevention, Treatment and Support.

Source: GNA