BAKASSI – No fewer than 1,000 residents of Bakassi Local Government Area of Cross River on Saturday benefited from the free healthcare service of the National Association of Seadogs (NAS).
The president of NAS, Mr Ide Owodiong-Idemeko, said the free healthcare was part of the association’s humanitarian services.
“We are doing this project to help ameliorate the health challenges of those who cannot afford better healthcare due to financial problems.
“We are rendering free healthcare services to pregnant women, those with dental problems, HIV/AIDS counselling, free distribution of treated insecticide mosquito nets and free drugs to members of the community with peculiar problems.
“These healthcare services cost the association N20 million. We are happy because it is a humanitarian service to the people’’, he said.
Dr Kenneth Okoro, Head of Medical Services of NAS, said the association conducted free medical services every year in remote areas without access to better healthcare services.
Okoro expressed satisfaction with the high turnout of residents in the community, adding that their mission was to help in ameliorating the health challenges of the people.
“We have identified that malaria in Bakassi local government area is very prevalent due to the rivers around, and children are the most affected. We will also de-warm them.
“Malnutrition is also a challenge here, we are here with our full medical team to do our best’’, he said.
According to him, most of the residents do not undergo medical tests when due.
He advised them to always check their blood sugar level, cholesterol and HIV status every three months.
Mr Eteng Okon, who received free eye glasses, said he was impressed with the free health care provided by the association.
He commended NAS for the humanitarian service, saying that it would go a long way in improving the health condition of the people.
Mrs Mercy Bassey, who was treated for a tooth problem, also thanked NAS for its goodwill service.
A cross section of residents who received free drugs for different health problems, also lauded the association for its humanitarian service. (NAN)
