249 people undergo health screening, 42 percent high blood pressure.

BETONG, Sept 27: A total of 249 visitors underwent two-day health screening at the Sarawakku Sayang Program (SKS) in Betong, with 42 percent of them diagnosed as having high blood pressure problems.

Dr. Hilda Michael, Medical Officer of the Concrete Division Health Office, said that cholesterol problems were also identified through screening.

Dr. Hilda Michael, Medical Officer of the Concrete Division of Health. Photo by Nadim Bokhari (TVS)

He said the reception of health services provided throughout the program was very encouraging.

"So far, after we've run two days of health screening, 249 people have been tested.

"Of those 249, 42 percent were diagnosed with high blood pressure, followed by cholesterol", he said.

In addition to health screening, it also provides exhibitions and health promotion as well as fitness checks by physiotherapy teams.

At the same time, a total of 100 free influenza vaccine doses were brought in specifically to be given to eligible groups throughout the programme.

Of that total, 83 doses were given as of Sunday afternoon, with the remaining 17 doses being offered until 3 p.m. today.

Dr Hilda said the free influenza vaccine is given to individuals aged 50 and over who have comorbidities such as high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, in addition to those aged 60 and over even if they do not have the disease.

"We're almost out of vaccines. The reception was very encouraging and our staff were busy all day as we operated from 8 am to 9 pm", he said.

Additionally, influenza vaccines are still available for free at health clinics in the Betong area.

Zharif Anwar, the public health officer. Photo by Nadim Bokhari (TVS)

Meanwhile, visitor Zharif Anuar described SKS as a good platform for the public to get to know more closely the services and initiatives provided by various government agencies.

He said that the programme also gives visitors an opportunity to get information they may not have known before, in addition to undergoing health checks.

"We hope that such a programme will continue in the future as it provides much exposure to the community about existing services", he explained.

Rabilian Jeti (left) is putting together a puzzle on KKM avenue while waiting for his turn for health screening. Photo by Nadim Bokhari (TVS)

Another visitor, Rabilian Jeti, said the programme made it easier for the public to get a direct explanation of various government initiatives.

"We can find out what the government's initiatives are for us. It's very clear and we can keep asking the officers here.

"Besides, there's also screening and health consultation, so we can come and find out about our health status", he said.

He hoped that more activities involving youths could be introduced in the upcoming campaigns to encourage their participation and increase knowledge about various initiatives in Sarawak.-TVS