Bugiri District Inaugurates Diagnostic Centre After 55 Years to Combat Rising Non-Communicable Diseases

Bugiri District, after more than five decades, is set to receive a much-needed diagnostic centre aimed at tackling the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Bugiri General Hospital, established between 1967 and 1971, has operated without such facilities, forcing patients to travel to distant regional hospitals or even cross-border facilities for essential tests and scans.

The absence of diagnostic services has compounded the health challenges in the district, particularly as NCDs like cancer, hypertension, and diabetes continue to rise alongside infectious diseases. Health officials attribute this surge to lifestyle factors including smoking and alcohol consumption.

Relief is now on the horizon through a partnership with the NGO Smart African Village Development Consortium (SADO). SADO’s Executive Director, Dr. Nelson Muzira Mugubira, announced that the construction of the diagnostic centre will commence soon, with completion expected by the end of the year. SADO will also provide the necessary equipment.

District leaders expressed gratitude for the initiative but also highlighted ongoing challenges. They appealed for additional drugs, medical supplies, and increased staffing, including doctors and nurses, to adequately serve the population. The project by SADO will also extend support to other health facilities and hospitals in the region, with potential expansion to other parts of Uganda.

Local representatives also raised concerns about the availability of midwives in rural health centres and the impact of poor road infrastructure on accessing antenatal care, leading some expectant mothers to seek traditional remedies. Issues of healthcare worker absenteeism were also brought to light, causing significant frustration for patients.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/after-55-years-bugiri-finally-gets-diagnostic-centre-to-fight-rising-ncds-5455110