Aga Khan Health Service sheds light on women's health challenges

Dar es Salaam. Health specialists at the Aga Khan Health Service, Tanzania (AKHST), have revealed the prevalent health issues burdening women and offered guidance to improve their quality of life.

According to experts at the AKHST, cervical, breast, and ovarian cancers, along with infertility, rank among the most pressing concerns among female patients at the hospital.

During the observance of International Women’s Day, an obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Lynn Moshi, underscored the importance of vigilance among women, urging them to be aware of any abnormalities and undergo early screening for gynaecological cancers.

“Promoting a holistic approach to women’s health, women should incorporate healthy eating habits, regular exercise, and positive mental health practices to maintain hormonal balance and mitigate potential fertility challenges,” she said.

Furthermore, Dr Moshi addressed the prevalence of misinformation surrounding family planning, stressing the need for education and dispelling myths regarding contraception.

The Head of Paediatrics at AKHST, Dr Mariam Noorani, highlighted the challenges faced by mothers, including breastfeeding difficulties and mental distress associated with childcare responsibilities.

She urged mothers to prioritize their mental health and seek assistance when needed, emphasizing the importance of maintaining good nutrition for healthy lactation periods.

In terms of heart health, Dr Noorani pointed out that coronary artery disease and arrhythmia are common issues among female patients, advising women to adopt a healthy lifestyle and avoid hormonal therapy as a contraceptive method.

“Mothers are encouraged to maintain a good nutrition status to ensure healthy lactation periods, prioritise their mental health as much as physical health, and seek help when needed,” she advises.

Regarding heart health, Dr Noorani said coronary artery disease and arrhythmia were also common issues among female patients.

“To prevent these, women are advised to avoid hormonal therapy as birth control and maintain a healthy diet, exercise, reduce stress, quit alcohol, and obtain proper sleep.”

The AKHST reiterated its commitment to women’s health, with a particular focus on gender equality. As of January 2024, over half of the staff at AKHST were female, reflecting the institution's dedication to inclusivity.

The hospital also announced initiatives to improve access to healthcare for women, including discounted screenings for breast and cervical cancers and mobile clinics offering services to women in remote areas.

Most recently, AKHST partnered with WOMEN TAPO, a community-based organization addressing women’s financial and social issues in Dar es Salaam.

As part of this collaboration, women entrepreneurs received free health education and screenings for breast and cervical cancer, blood pressure measurements, and Covid-19 vaccinations at an event celebrating International Women’s Day.

The AKHST's efforts align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 5, which emphasizes gender equality and women's empowerment as essential components of sustainable development.