In Uganda’s Kigungu landing site, a staggering 25.5% to 40% of residents live with HIV, far exceeding the national average (5.5%) among adults aged 15-49 years.
To combat this, Entebbe-based Family Medical Point took their “Musawo Session” to the community, engaging sex workers and local women in conversations related to reproductive health and HIV prevention,
“We want to empower these women with knowledge to protect themselves,” said Nabwire Polyne, Head of Programs at Family Medical Point. “PEP and PREP are crucial in preventing HIV transmission.” Added Polyne.
Explaining the difference between two essential HIV prevention methods, Polyne noted that PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is an antiretroviral treatment taken after potential HIV exposure to prevent infection. In contrast, PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is an antiretroviral medication taken before exposure to prevent infection.
“It’s essential to note that both require a doctor’s prescription and ongoing medical supervision.” Polyne emphasized adding that, “PEP is usually taken for 28 days, while PrEP is an ongoing regimen for optimal protection.”
During the four-hour session, the team from Family Medical point addressed concerns and distributed free condoms. However, Nabutono Julie raised a critical issue: “The oily lubricant on condoms worries me. Is it harmful in the long run?”
Polyne reassured her, emphasizing proper condom usage. “We must prioritize safe sex practices, especially in high-risk communities like ours here. A condom is preventatively safe if used in the right manner.”
Nakya Juliet questioned why HIV treatment is free, but other diseases linked to HIV, like tuberculosis and cancer, are not. Polyne explained that government and partners provide free services for these conditions at designated hospitals.
A haunting revelation came from Najuma Grace, who confessed to using Omo detergent for abortion given exorbitant hospital bills and restrictive regulations. Polyne strongly advised against this, urging women to seek medical guidance.
“Unsafe abortions claim thousands of lives annually,” Polyne noted. “We promote access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services including family planning and post abortion care, this is a fundamental human right.”
Hanifa Namugoya expressed gratitude for Family Medical Point’s initiative. “They bring us good guidance and protective tools like condoms. We need more support like this, thank you.”
Family Medical Point is a Non-Governmental Organization located in Abaita-Ababiri-Entebbe, Uganda, with a mission to promote equitable access to quality healthcare for underserved communities, envisioning a Uganda where everyone recieves optimal health.
The organization conducts monthly “Musawo” sessions targeting underserved communities most especially landing sites to address pressing health concerns.
Key Statistics
HIV prevalence in Kigungu: 25.5% to 40%.
National HIV prevalence: 5.5% among adults aged 15-49.
Unsafe abortions account for 13% of maternal mortality worldwide.
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