Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are causing concern among healthcare professionals in the Teso sub-region. These infections, often caused by bacteria from the skin or rectum entering the urethra, lead to urinary tract infections, impacting various parts of the urinary tract, particularly the bladder, and causing frequent and painful urination.
At Soroti Regional Referral Hospital, Dr. Wilson Etolu, a Consultant Physician, reports that at least 20 patients are diagnosed with UTIs daily. Patients commonly present with lower abdominal pain, difficulties in urination, and other complications.
Dr. Etolu notes that UTIs have become more prevalent in health facilities in recent years, attributing the increase to drug abuse, particularly self-medication by patients.
One patient from Asuret Sub County in Soroti district reveals that she has been diagnosed with UTIs more than six times this year. Despite following treatment, she experiences limited improvement after the first dose, requiring additional medication.
Health facilities emphasize hygiene practices, but some patients, like the one from Asuret, find these recommendations challenging to implement alone at home. Dr. Etolu highlights ongoing studies to identify effective remedies for UTIs in various localities.
In Serere district, UTIs rank among the top five diseases affecting communities, according to Dr. Daniel Ogwal, the Acting Serere District Health Officer. Malaria is the most prevalent, followed by diarrhea and cough/pneumonia. Dr. Etolu also notes a rising trend in diabetes and hypertension across the Teso sub-region.