MAFETENG — Health authorities in Mafeteng are intensifying awareness and screening efforts to help residents understand the risks associated with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer and asthma.

Speaking in an interview with the Agency, Mafeteng Non-Communicable Diseases Coordinator Ms Likhabiso Theko said the district is responding to the international call to raise awareness about NCDs. She said many people do not fully understand these diseases, making education and awareness important in helping people recognise their risks and seek medical care early.

She said the diseases of particular concern include diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer and asthma. Ms Theko warned that some people live with these conditions without knowing they have them, which can lead to serious complications and, in some cases, death. She said some people only discover that they had diabetes or another chronic condition after their health had deteriorated.

She said recent health screenings conducted among civil servants in Mafeteng found that many had NCDs, with most being diagnosed for the first time. According to Ms Theko, the findings demonstrate the importance of regular health screenings, even for people who do not feel sick.

The coordinator added that violence is another concern in Mafeteng, saying injuries sustained during fights, including serious head injuries, can have long term health consequences. She noted that head injuries can contribute to conditions such as epilepsy, which may expose affected people to further dangers.

She advised people to take their medication as prescribed. She said if the medication does not suit them, they should return it to the hospital rather than throw it away so that it can be changed to one that better suits them.
Ms Theko also cautioned against the use of over the counter medication based only on symptoms. She said people sometimes assume they know what condition they have and take medication without first confirming the actual cause of their symptoms, which can be dangerous.

She encouraged residents to eat healthy food and exercise regularly to help maintain their health and reduce the risk of NCDs. She described the diseases as “silent killers” because they may develop without obvious symptoms.
Meanwhile, a woman who requested anonymity said the news left her feeling shocked, fearful and uncertain about her future.

“A heavy mix of shock, fear and disbelief washed over me and a deep sadness and anger at why it had to happen to me,” she said. She said she felt overwhelmed and worried about her future, her family and how her life would change.