Health 22 July 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Free Health Camp Uncovers Undiagnosed Illnesses in Buziga
A recent free medical camp in Buziga saw over 300 residents access vital health screenings and treatments, revealing a significant need for accessible healthcare and early disease detection in the community. The event successfully identified several cases of preventable illnesses, including abnormalities in cervical and prostate cancer screenings, and sickle cell disease. Source: https://observer.ug/news/free-health-camp-uncovers-hidden-illnesses
A free medical outreach event held at the Buziga Islamic Centre Grounds on July 16, organized as part of the Ggaba Road Corridor Rotary Cancer Run Activation, provided essential healthcare services to over 300 residents. The camp offered a wide range of screenings, including tests for malaria, HIV, tuberculosis, hepatitis B and C, typhoid, various cancers, and sickle cell disease.
Demand for the services outstripped the available resources, with all medicines distributed by the end of the day. This high turnout highlights a common challenge faced by many Ugandans: the cost of healthcare often leads to delayed medical attention, resulting in diseases being diagnosed at more advanced and difficult-to-treat stages.
“Early diagnosis gives patients a better chance of successful treatment,” stated District Governor Nominee Peter Kagwa, who officiated at the event, emphasizing the importance of regular medical check-ups.
Significant findings included the screening of 45 women for cervical cancer, with three cases requiring further specialist evaluation. Additionally, 52 women underwent breast cancer checks, and 120 men were screened for prostate cancer, leading to one referral for specialized follow-up.
The camp also focused on sickle cell disease, screening 128 individuals. Of these, 24 were found to carry the sickle cell trait (AS) and one was diagnosed with the disease (SS). Those diagnosed received counselling and psychosocial support.
Beyond medical diagnostics, attendees received health education on nutrition, disease prevention, and healthy living from doctors, nurses, and volunteers. Beatrice Sekabembe Juuko, President of the Rotary Club of Buziga, expressed satisfaction with the community’s engagement and reiterated Rotary’s commitment to improving healthcare access.
This medical camp is a precursor to the upcoming 2026 Rotary Cancer Run on August 30, with funds raised supporting the construction of the Rotary Cancer Centre at Nsambya. “Every Cancer Run kit purchased helps raise funds for the construction of the Rotary Cancer Centre at Nsambya, bringing quality cancer care closer to the people who need it most,” Sekabembe added.
This initiative was widely welcomed by residents, who appreciated the opportunity to receive free medical evaluations and treatment, recognizing the life-saving impact of such accessible healthcare services. https://observer.ug/news/free-health-camp-uncovers-hidden-illnesses