Africa-Press – Cape verde. The South Zone Police Station held a health fair this Saturday in the city of Monte Negro, aiming to democratize access to medical care and promote the elderly population.
In a statement to the press, the South Zone municipal police chief, João Ribeiro, explained that the event was created to address the access challenges faced by more dispersed communities with fewer resources.
“We want no one to be left out in terms of health, because it is a fundamental right. We brought together various specialties, from nutritionists, dentists, general practitioners, physiotherapists, psychologists, to professionals involved in physical exercise, which also contributes to well-being,” he emphasized.
In turn, the president of the Community Health Association, Nelson Costa, emphasized that the event, which is being held under the motto “Health for All: Live Well in the South Zone,” represents “a special focus on the elderly,” advocating that aging should be active and healthy.
“We want to promote a change in behavior so that people age with quality of life, not with disease. We offered screenings for chronic and infectious diseases, consultations, lectures, and health promotion activities, with special attention to the elderly population,” he said.
Arfrânio Monteiro, vice president of the Instituto Nova Vida (INOVA) Association, also advocated for strengthening primary and preventative healthcare and argued that lifestyle changes help prevent physical and mental illnesses.
He said the response was “good,” with most complaints related to obesity.
Among the beneficiaries, Silvéria da Veiga said the initiative is “very positive” because, often, “a simple hospital appointment takes a long time,” and access is even more difficult for those living outside the city.
Inácio Cabral, meanwhile, stated that he left the fair “more enlightened.” He learned many things he didn’t know, especially about female condoms, and emphasized that the initiative should continue.
The City Hall announced that it intends to replicate the experience in 12 locations in the South Zone, aiming to ensure greater equity in access to healthcare.
The event, which was partnered with the City Council, the Saúde na Comunidade (Community Health) and INOVA associations, provided free consultations, screenings, counseling, and physical activities, bringing together approximately one hundred people in this first edition.
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