UCC Health Directorate Marks World Tuberculosis Day with Community Outreach

The Directorate of University Health Services (DUHS) at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) has commemorated the 2025 World Tuberculosis Day with a community outreach programme to raise awareness about the disease and promote early detection and treatment.

World Tuberculosis Day, observed annually on March 24, was established by the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (IUATLD) in 1982 to mark the 100th anniversary of Dr. Robert Koch’s discovery of the TB bacillus. The global event seeks to highlight the impact of tuberculosis and the urgent need for proactive healthcare interventions.

As part of this year’s observance, DUHS organized a free health screening at Duakor, one of the communities close to the University. The screening covered tuberculosis, malaria, body mass index (BMI) checks, and a mental health awareness session for community members.

Speaking at the event, the Director of DUHS, Dr. James Prah, reaffirmed UCC’s commitment to providing quality healthcare services, particularly in early disease detection and prevention. He further emphasized the University’s dedication to community outreach.

 "The University of Cape Coast Hospital has taken it upon ourselves to also reach out to the communities. So, when there are world health days like this, we celebrate with them through such outreaches."

Some of the residents being screened

Dr. Prah further highlighted the importance of these initiatives, adding, "This is one of the public health services that we do, and also, letting the community benefit from us as a health facility that is within their enclave."

Mrs. Rebecca Baafi-Sarbeng, the In-Charge of the Public Health Unit, explained that the decision to hold the outreach program was driven by the increasing number of tuberculosis cases reported at the UCC Hospital. 

She noted, "What we have seen or observed is that tuberculosis has become a common issue because many people who come to the hospital with a cough and other symptoms test positive when we conduct the test. So, we decided to hold this event at this particular place."

She further emphasized the importance of immediate medical intervention for those diagnosed with TB.

 In addition to the tuberculosis screening, the programme included a mental health awareness session, which focused on educating community members about the harmful effects of drug abuse and excessive alcohol consumption.

The DUHS team also provided screening for malaria, checks for blood pressure and BMI, eye care, and mental health. Mental health professionals were present to offer guidance and support to those in need.

Source: Documentation and Information Section-UCC