Over 60 per cent of residents who screened for typhoid tested positive at Telecel Ghana Foundation’s Healthfest outreach in Lawra in the Upper West Region.

Out of 250 residents tested, a staggering 158 were unknowingly positive for the waterborne bacterial infection, with the majority showing no symptoms.

Health professionals on-site immediately referred the positive cases for treatment, potentially preventing a wider community health emergency.

The bimonthly comprehensive health screening initiative plays a crucial role in early diagnosis and treatment of potential health issues, allowing for timely and proactive medical interventions.

In total, over 450 residents across the Lawra district took advantage of the free full-body wellness screening to check their blood pressure, blood glucose, typhoid, hepatitis, malaria, as well as general medical consultations.

"Finding and treating these hidden infections early is exactly why we organise Healthfest in underserved communities, as it helps to save lives, prevents outbreaks and brings preventative healthcare directly to people that need it most.

"To promote access to healthcare and ensure sustainability, we have renewed, replaced and registered 250 residents onto the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS),” said Rita Agyeiwaa Rockson, Head of Foundation, Sustainability and External Communications at Telecel Ghana.

Some of the inhabitants of the small, rural community with limited health infrastructure said they often faced the impossible choice between buying food or seeking medical treatment.

For retired clerk Pascal Lani, Healthfest was nothing short of divine intervention. At 68, Mr. Lani avoided hospitals for several years due to the high costs, but felt his burden lifted when he received complimentary health screening and medication.

“I’ve always wanted to go to the hospital, but I couldn’t afford it. My blood pressure was checked, my blood was tested and a consultation with a doctor, who prescribed medication all free of charge. I’m very happy with the care and the medicines provided. God bless the Telecel Ghana Foundation.”

Telecel Healthfest, which aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 3 on ‘Good Health and Well-being’, aims to close the healthcare gap by removing financial and geographical barriers.

The corporate social responsibility arm of the telecommunications giant has committed to expanding its health initiatives to reach even more communities to address existing health disparities in rural regions of Ghana.