Health and Hope at St Ophel Medical Centre

From October to December 2025, St Ophel medical centre continued to be a place of protection, early detection and life saving care for hundreds of families. From cancer screenings to safe deliveries, from malaria prevention to daily consultations, your support has helped strengthen community health and protect some of the most vulnerable women and children.

Pink October: Early detection saves lives

During October, St Ophel medical centre led a three day ‘Pink October’ campaign focused on breast and cervical cancer screening:

• 780 women and adolescent girls received awareness teaching
• 461 women and girls were screened
• Several suspected cases were identified early and referred for care

Many of the women who attended had never heard about cervical cancer before. Through group discussions and one to one conversations, midwives explained symptoms, prevention and the importance of regular check ups.

Voices from the Heart of the Health Centre

Mrs Sanou (pictured above and below), a midwife who has served at Ophel for ten years, shared:

“I am the team leader who coordinated the 2025 Pink October campaign at the Ophel Health Centre. Over these three days, we witnessed firsthand how meaningful and transformative this activity was for the women and young girls in our community.

From the very first day, the turnout exceeded our expectations. We were able to screen many women and, more importantly, inform and reassure many others who previously had no knowledge of the symptoms or means of prevention. Some cases tested positive, but because of early detection, we were able to take the necessary steps immediately. 

What moved me the most was the eagerness to learn and the trust the women placed in us. We also saw remarkable engagement from the high school girls. They asked insightful questions and showed a genuine desire to share what they learned with others. 

For us, as healthcare workers, this experience was one of humanity, connection, and purpose shared with our community. We sincerely thank our partners and donors for their invaluable support.”

Adjara Wonogo (pictured above), attended out of curiosity after hearing the town crier’s announcement. She said:

“Before this campaign, I knew nothing about cervical cancer or the importance of screening. When the town crier came through our area to announce the activity, I decided to attend, simply out of curiosity.

During the awareness session, the midwives explained, in simple and clear words, how to prevent this disease. I realised how important it is to get screened, not only for myself but also for the sake of my children.

I am now determined to talk to other women around me and encourage them to get screened as well. I am grateful to the health centre.”

Early detection truly saves lives. And this campaign shows how much the community appreciates health knowledge and access to care.

Protecting Mothers and Babies from Malaria

At Christmas, St Ophel distributed insecticide treated mosquito nets to pregnant and breastfeeding women. For these families, this gift brings much needed protection.

Amina (pictured above) nine months pregnant and living near the quarry where mosquitoes are everywhere, told us:

“Since receiving the mosquito net, my nights are much calmer. I feel protected and reassured. I can now focus on my health and that of my baby.”

Alongside the distribution, staff provided practical teaching on how to use and care for the nets properly. This will help to reduce malaria risk among mothers and infants.

Screening for Diabetes and Hepatitis B

Non communicable diseases are a growing concern in the community. This quarter:

• Around 300 people received awareness teaching on diabetes and hepatitis B
• 137 people were screened
• Suspected cases were referred for follow up care

Early identification reduces long term complications and helps people take control of their health before problems become severe.

A Safe and Dignified Health Environment

Beyond campaigns, St Ophel’s maternity unit and clinic continued their daily essential services. Women received antenatal and postnatal care, assisted deliveries, newborn support and preventive health services. The dispensary treated common illnesses, carried out laboratory tests and referred complex cases when needed.

This quarter also included strengthened medical waste management to ensure used syringes and biomedical waste are collected and disposed of safely. This protects patients, staff, and the environment. Healthcare must be safe in every sense, including hygiene and environmental protection.

Challenges

The biggest challenge this quarter was the pressure on staff and medical supplies. The Pink October campaign saw far higher attendance than expected. While this is encouraging, it did place additional strain on staff during a busy period.

To help with this:

• Staff roles were reorganised to manage flow and prioritise pregnant women and the elderly
• Group awareness sessions reduced waiting times
• Stock management systems were strengthened to prevent shortages

Protecting Dignity and Inclusion

All activities were carried out with:

• Equal access to care regardless of background
• Respect for confidentiality and informed consent
• Inclusion of people living with disabilities
• Safe, child friendly services

Thank you for your support to International Needs, and for standing with St Ophel Medical Centre. Because of your support, women are being screened early. Mothers are sleeping safely under mosquito nets. Babies are being delivered in skilled hands. Families are receiving care they can trust.

You are helping to protect life: one woman, one child, one family at a time.

Written by Zoë Atherton, Communications Officer at International Needs UK