Online Reporter
Takudzwa Mangrozah
Herald Reporter
CHITUNGWIZA residents turned out in large numbers on Friday for a childhood cancer awareness event at Makoni 24-Hour Medical Centre, where free health checks were also offered to the community.
The event, held in partnership with KidzCan Zimbabwe, focused on teaching parents about early signs of cancer in children and the importance of seeking medical help early.
Many people who passed by stopped to get information and basic health screenings, including blood pressure, body mass index (BMI) and blood sugar tests.
Makoni 24HR Medical Centre operations manager Mr Alex Kagande said the programme was meant to address a lack of awareness in the community.
“We realised there is a lack of knowledge when it comes to childhood cancer, and in many cases, children are only diagnosed at a late stage,” he said.
He said early detection can save lives and urged parents to act quickly when they notice unusual symptoms.
“If you see certain symptoms, quickly go to the nearest clinic so that early intervention can take place,” he said.
Mr Kagande added that the outreach is part of the centre’s efforts to serve the Chitungwiza community, where it has operated for close to 20 years.
“Our goal is to become the main service provider for medical services in this community, and we also want to give back through such initiatives,” he said.
The medical centre’s public relations officer, Ms Chengeto Nyambuya, said the event combined awareness and free services to benefit residents.
“This Wellness Awareness Day is about promoting early detection and preventive healthcare,” she said.
“We are making healthcare more accessible while also educating the community.”
KidzCan Zimbabwe representatives also engaged parents and shared information on childhood cancer.
Nurse Charity Kawadza said the outreach showed that many people are still unaware that children can get cancer.
“We are meeting people who didn’t know that children can get cancer, and others who want more information,” she said.
She said the organisation also works with Government hospitals to support children diagnosed with cancer.
“We assist with chemotherapy, diagnostic tests and counselling for patients and their families,” she said.
Sister Kawadza also encouraged parents to take their children for medical check-ups early.
“We want parents to act quickly when they notice something unusual so that children can get help in time,” she said.
She also talked about a home where children can stay while they are being treated, which offers counselling.
“We also do counselling. And we’ve recently added in another area of care, which is the home, away from home,” she added.
The event ended with many residents appreciating the free services and information, as organisers said they plan to continue such outreach programmes in the community.
