Free medical camps address alarming health challenges

THATTA, SINDH: Free medical camps were recently organized by the Sindh Community Foundation (SCF) in collaboration with the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) under the Restoring Social Services and Climate Resilience project. These camps, held in two villages of Thatta—Wahid Dino Shoro (Union Council Bijoro) and Raheem Mallah (Union Council Garrho)—aimed to improve healthcare access in a region struggling with severe health challenges.
The camps provided diagnostic services, treatments, and free medicines to over 461 individuals, primarily women and children. Patients needing specialized care were referred to nearby health facilities.
Alarming health statistics in Thatta
SCF head Javed Hussain highlighted the pressing health concerns in District Thatta, noting its high prevalence of anemia among women and girls, a condition aggravated by widespread malnutrition. Dr. Maria, a physician at the camps, reported that over 50% of patients screened were diagnosed with anemia, with many children exhibiting stunted growth—a stark indicator of chronic nutritional deficiencies.
Call for immediate action
SCF Project Coordinator Abdullah Khushk urged stakeholders to act swiftly. "The region requires nutrition supplementation programs and awareness campaigns promoting balanced diets and accessible healthcare," he stated. Experts believe such interventions are crucial to reversing the worsening health crisis in this underserved area.