Residents of Kisoro District have been urged to take an active role in cancer prevention, support people undergoing treatment and avoid stigmatizing cancer patients.
The call was made on Sunday during the Kisoro-Mgahinga Rotary Club Cancer Run, which attracted participants who competed in 5, 10 and 21-kilometre races in different categories.
Gerald Nkusi, the organiser of the Cancer Run, urged residents to make cancer prevention a continuous community effort rather than waiting for annual events to raise awareness.
He called on households and communities to support cancer patients and promote preventive measures, including regular screening and healthy lifestyles.
The guest of honour, Kenneth Rwego Gahuriro, called on members of the public to contribute towards the acquisition of a cancer treatment machine for Nsambya Hospital in Kampala.
Rwego said Uganda has limited cancer treatment equipment, making it necessary for communities to support efforts aimed at improving access to treatment.
He also encouraged residents to undergo regular cancer screening and engage in physical exercise as part of efforts to maintain healthy lifestyles.
Ezera Ndagije, a cancer survivor who has lived with the disease for 10 years, encouraged residents to eat fresh fruits and embrace cancer prevention measures.
Ndagije said cancer can be managed and urged people diagnosed with the disease not to lose hope but to seek medical attention and maintain a positive attitude.
Kisoro Municipality Member of Parliament, Sam Byibesho, who was the chief runner, commended the Kisoro-Mgahinga Rotary Club for organising the event.
Byibesho urged residents to change their eating habits, saying consuming more natural and healthy foods could help reduce the risk of lifestyle-related diseases.
Cue in Sam….on Cancer Run…..ENG//
The Kisoro District Health Officer, Dr Bosco Muhangi, urged residents to pay attention to changes in their bodies and maintain proper nutrition.
Dr Muhangi also encouraged the public to utilise government cancer screening programmes and seek medical attention whenever they notice unusual changes in their bodies.
Cue in Dr Muhangi…..on the Matter….RR//
