Women at the Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) have been encouraged to prioritise regular medical check-ups to enable early detection of serious diseases such as cervical and breast cancer, a step experts say can save lives and reduce preventable complications.
The call was made by medicinal plants chemist and researcher Prof. Faith Mabiki during a special women’s health forum held at the Morogoro-based university.
Speaking during the event, Prof. Mabiki said many women continue to treat their health as a secondary priority due to fear or lack of accurate information, a situation that often leads to avoidable health risks.
“There is still considerable fear among women when it comes to health screening, yet modern technology has made medical examinations easier, faster and more accurate,” she said.
She stressed that early detection remains one of the most effective ways to manage life-threatening diseases.
“It is always better to detect diseases early, receive treatment and continue living a healthy life,” she noted.
Prof. Mabiki added that a healthy woman contributes significantly to productivity at home, in the workplace and in the wider community, ultimately supporting national development.
Chairperson of the SUA branch of the Research, Academic and Allied Workers Union (RAAWU), Faraja Kamendu, said the university management recognises and values the important role women play in the institution’s development.
She said the health seminar was organised to provide women with essential knowledge on health challenges and preventive measures.
According to Kamendu, the union will continue working closely with the university management to ensure the wellbeing of employees, particularly women, is prioritised.
She also encouraged women at the university to take their health seriously, believe in their abilities and continue contributing effectively in their professional and social roles.
Meanwhile, a paediatrician at SUA Hospital, Dr. Graca Chotamawe, warned that non-communicable diseases are increasingly becoming a major global and regional health threat.
Dr. Chotamawe said about 41 million people die every year worldwide from non-communicable diseases, with the situation becoming more alarming in Africa where the burden of such illnesses continues to rise.
She attributed the increase to lifestyle changes such as reduced physical activity, increased use of motorised transport including cars and motorcycles, substance abuse, changes in agricultural systems and persistent poverty.
She added that non-communicable diseases also impose a heavy economic burden on many families because they require long-term treatment and costly medical care, which can push households into poverty.
The forum, attended by female staff and students, formed part of efforts to raise awareness, promote early health screening and encourage a culture of prioritising health among women.
Participants also underwent health screening for conditions including diabetes and high blood pressure during the event.