Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
ZIMBABWE Prisons and Correctional Services Commissioner General, Moses Chihobvu, led the way at a health screening initiative in Harare yesterday.
He was accompanied by senior ZPCS officers.
The screening was a comprehensive assessment of the body mass index (BMI), prostate cancer markers, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels.
This was facilitated by the Premier Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS).
Chihobvu underlined the importance of regular health checks for officers and their families.
“As your leader, I will be the first to undergo screening and I encourage every officer to prioritise their health.”
Dr Evidence Gaka, chief director of Health Services at ZPCS, highlighted the need for proactive health management, particularly regarding non-communicable diseases like diabetes.
“Scheduling appointments with dietitians is crucial for understanding portion control and carbohydrate counting,” he said.
“Maintaining a food diary can provide valuable insights into variety and portion sizes.”
He also highlighted the importance of monitoring blood sugar levels as well as reading nutrition labels.
Dr Gaka noted that while prostate cancer typically progresses slowly, early detection was critical.
“In its initial stages, prostate cancer may not present noticeable symptoms,” he said.
“However, as the disease advances, symptoms like difficulty in urinating and decreased urinary flow may arise.”
Dr Gaka urged women to prioritise screening for cervical cancer.
“If cervical cancer progresses, it may lead to severe symptoms such as persistent pain, weight loss, fatigue, and unusual discharge,” he said.
ZPCS Deputy Commissioner General, Granisia Musango, participated by leading cervical cancer screenings for female inmates.
Elitha Mwanza, a healthcare official from PSMAS, announced that the health checks would be extended nationwide, ensuring access to these essential services in every region.
