November 14th marked World Diabetes Day, a global initiative to raise awareness about diabetes and advocate for better care and prevention. Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research, a leading healthcare institution, embraced the spirit of this important day by organizing a series of impactful events that left a lasting impression on the community.
Free Medical Camp: Extending a Helping Hand to Over 300 Individuals At the heart of the hospital’s World Diabetes Day celebrations was a dedicated team of diabetologists who took proactive steps to reach out to the community. They organized a free medical camp that offered screening and consultations to over 300 people. This noble initiative aimed not only to identify individuals at risk or living with diabetes but also to provide valuable insights and guidance on managing
the condition. The medical camp provided comprehensive screenings, including blood glucose tests, blood pressure measurements and BMI assessments. The diabetologists were on hand to interpret the results and engage in one-onone consultations, offering personalized advice tailored to each individual’s health needs. This initiative not only addressed immediate health concerns but also emphasized the importance of regular check-ups and early detection. “Know your risk, know your response” was the message put across.
Dr. Caroline Mithi, a prominent diabetologist at Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research (KUTRRH) expressed the significance of such initiatives, saying, “early detection and proactive management are crucial in the fight against diabetes. By providing free screenings and consultations, we hope to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to take control of their health.”
Community Engagement through a Diabetes Awareness Walk In addition to the medical camp, Kenyatta University Teaching Referral and Research Hospital organized a Diabetes Awareness Walk. In accordance with this year’s theme “Empowering global health” the team organized a walk that brought people together to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about diabetes. The walk was led by healthcare professionals, including diabetologists, nurses, and nutritionists. Participants , donned in blue— the official color of diabetes awaren e s s — m a r c h e d together, symbolizing unity in the fight against diabetes. Banners and informational materials were distributed to educate participants and passersby about the importance of a balanced diet, regular exercise and the significance of early diabetes detection. The Diabetes Awareness Walk not only fostered a sense of community but also served as a powerful platform to dismantle myths surrounding diabetes and encourage open conversations about the condition. By involving the community in these activities, Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital reinforced i ts commitment to holistic healthcare and community well-being.
A Triumph in Community Health For Kenyatta University Teaching Referral and Research Hospital the day was not just a celebration; it was a profound commitment to the health and well-being of the community. The free medical camp and the Diabetes Awareness Walk underscored the hospital’s dedication to preventive healthcare and education.
By actively engaging with the community, Kenyatta University Teaching Referral and Research Hospital has taken a significant
step towards creating a healthier, more informed society—one that is better equipped to combat and manage diabetes. The success of these initiatives not only echoes through the number of people reached but also through the strengthened bond between the hospital and the community it serves.