Spina Bifida And Hydrocephalus Patients Decry Neglect From Public                                

By,Damba Rogers

As the country joins the rest of the world to mark the global day for spina bifida and hydrocephalus, patients in Uganda are decrying the continued neglect from members of the public and health workers.

Speaking to Kavuma Fortune Benjamin who is pursuing a diploma in accountancy and currently practices bakery as his side economic activity reveals that most members in the community view them as failures, curse to society which leaves them helpless and miserable in most of their life something he says should not continue happening arguing that they are also like normal human beings who are capable of contributing to the development of the nation and their respective communities.

However, Agnes Nandawula a care taker who also doubles as a teacher for the special children at Katalemwa children’s home located in Kanyanya Wakiso district urges parents and guardians of these children to ensure that they teach them hands on skills to enable them take part in meaningful economic and social activities so as to support themselves in the future.

With the country now registering 3 to 4 per 1000 births daily as new bones this translates to 5000 to 6000 new cases of hydrocephalus and 8000 new cases of spina bifida registered in Uganda every year something that the health ministry is worried about.

With the above huge numbers, now the commissioner curative services at the life ministry Dr. Jackson Amone says more efforts are being taken to see that there are more doctors to handle such cases but also advises expectant mothers to always take folic acid and foods that are rich in folic acid, proteins and vitamins during pregnancy to avoid giving birth to such children.

The national celebrations have been held at KCCA football grounds in Lugogo today.

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