Lack of Awareness, Computer Skills Hindering Digital Health Strategic Plan

Researchers in the health sector have expressed concern regarding the Uganda Health Information and Digital Strategic Plan. In May, the health ministry launched the new Uganda Health Information and Digital Health Strategic Plan 2020-2025 aimed at further strengthening the health information ecosystem in the country by promoting the responsible use of digital tools to document…

Only 11 Percent of the Ugandans in Need of Palliative Care Can Access it

According to the recent Lancet Commission report, only 11 percent of people in Uganda who need palliative care services can access it. This revelation emerged as Uganda observed World Hospice and Palliative Care Day. Palliative care, a specialized form of medical care, aims to alleviate symptoms and suffering associated with serious illnesses, particularly life-threatening ones.…

New Consortium Aims to Develop Next-Generation Malaria Vaccine Targeting P. vivax

In a significant stride towards combating malaria, a newly formed consortium known as OptiViVax has set its sights on developing next-generation vaccines that promise increased efficacy against Plasmodium vivax (P. vivax), the most prevalent human malaria-causing pathogen. This endeavor brings together academic institutions, industry leaders, and non-profit organizations to merge cutting-edge advancements in parasite immunology,…

Over 1300 Teenage Pregnancies Recorded Annually in Kabale

During a stakeholder dialogue organized by the Local Sustainable Communities Organization (LOSCO) at White Horse Inn in Kabale, the Kabale District Health Officer, Dr. Gilbert Arinaitwe Mateeka, highlighted the alarming issue of teenage pregnancies in the district, stating, “Over 1300 cases of teenage pregnancies are recorded in the district every year.” Dr. Mateeka went on…

Stroke could cause nearly 10 million deaths annually by 2050, mostly in LMICs, and cost up to US$2 trillion per year, new report warns

A new report from the World Stroke Organization has issued a stark warning, forecasting that strokes could cause nearly 10 million deaths annually by 2050 and cost up to $2 trillion per year, primarily affecting low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This report published by the Lancet Neurology Commission provides evidence-based recommendations to address the looming crisis…

Masaka Diocese Contemplates Mental Healthcare Expansion Amidst Surge in Depression Cases

The Masaka Catholic Diocese Health Department is contemplating an expansion of psychological health support services, responding to the surge in depression cases and its adverse impact on the community,” revealed Reverend Father Emmanuel Katabaazi, the Masaka Diocesan Coordinator of Health Services. He observed a rise in patients grappling with emotional stress, emphasizing the urgent need…

WHO Releases New Guidelines to Tackle Human Rights Abuses in Mental Healthcare

As the world observes Mental Health Day, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued fresh guidelines that underscore the ongoing challenges faced by mentally ill individuals despite existing legal protections. These guidelines, released in conjunction with the Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights (OHCHR), call upon nations to overhaul their legislation in order…

Bill Gates Announces $40 Million Investment in mRNA Research and Vaccine Manufacturing for Low- and Middle-Income Countries

At the 2023 Grand Challenges Annual Meeting, Bill Gates, Co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, unveiled plans for new investments aimed at advancing access to mRNA research and vaccine manufacturing technology. This initiative is designed to bolster the capacity of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in developing high-quality, life-saving vaccines on a large…

Preterm Birth Complications Affecting 1 in 10 Newborns

In 2020, an estimated 13.4 million babies arrived prematurely, and tragically, nearly one million succumbed to complications associated with preterm birth,” revealed a report released on Thursday by UN agencies and partners. The alarming data corresponds to approximately 1 in 10 babies born globally before completing 37 weeks of pregnancy, a statistic attributed to poor…

Persistent Absenteeism in Healthcare Facilities Despite Salary Boosts

The Ministry of Health (MOH) has expressed concern over the high levels of absenteeism of health workers in various government facilities despite enhancing their salaries. Dr. Henry Mwebesa, the Director General of Health Services, shared their observations during a recent supervision tour of selected hospitals across the country, stating that dedication to work has not…