In Abéné, in the commune of Kafountine, doctors from various specialties, members of Ziguinchor Medical Assistance (ZAM), spent days in this tourist and cultural location, which is at risk of pathological diseases linked to STDs and others, providing free care to the population. The diagnoses helped clear up some misunderstandings, particularly regarding infectious diseases and STDs in the area, according to the specialists.

Health actions associated with an awareness campaign for the population and young people regarding health practices.

For Alpha Sané, the president of the Abéné youth movement, these consultation days are beneficial, as access to health facilities with high levels in the area is difficult, even though the town has a fairly well-equipped health center. Abéné, 90 km from Ziguinchor, is not easy for every patient to attend consultations there.

 

Dr. Alioune Sow, a cardiologist and member of Ziguinchor Medical Assistance, explains that this mass campaign targeting the population of Abéné, coupled with awareness-raising on the various pathologies detected in the area, will be shared with stakeholders in the area (population and health bodies), for improved management of these pathologies. These diagnoses will serve as a basic document in the form of a report submitted to the supervisory authority, to better guide interventions in the area and understand the public health issues in this region and also in other localities where ZAM teams are sent during this winter period.

Several pathologies, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, have been diagnosed in elderly people, dermatological problems and parasitosis in children during this winter period, the doctor informed.

Regarding the frequency of pathologies linked to tourist activities such as infections and STDs, Dr. Sow reassured about the various tests and diagnoses carried out. "We have screened for communicable diseases, cancers and other infections, but all the tests we have had to carry out so far have come back negative," the cardiologist reassured.