Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital has initiated closed-heart surgeries, marking the start of a significant development in heart healthcare for residents of the western region of Uganda. Dr. Celestine Barigye, the Director of Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, expressed enthusiasm for the potential relief this would bring to those who previously had to travel long distances to receive heart disease treatment at the Uganda Heart Institute (UHI) in Kampala.
The announcement came during a joint media briefing, chaired by Dr. John Omagino, the Executive Director of UHI. The event was attended by heart specialists from both Mbarara Hospital and UHI.
This move is a significant milestone for UHI as it continues its mission to provide vital heart healthcare services to communities across Uganda. Approximately 10 surgeries are scheduled, and at the time of the press, two children born with a congenital heart defect had already undergone successful procedures and were reported to be in good condition.
Dr. Omagino emphasized the importance of these surgeries, stating that each successful operation represents hope for the patients and their families. He also highlighted UHI’s commitment to expanding this initiative to other regional hospitals to reduce the burden on patients traveling long distances.
The focus of these closed-heart surgeries is primarily on children born with Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA), a congenital heart defect present from birth. If left untreated, PDA can be life-threatening. Dr. Elias Kumbakumba, a senior pediatrician at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, stressed the importance of providing these young patients with a chance to live without the challenges posed by this condition.
Global statistics reveal the seriousness of cardiovascular diseases, which claim around 17.9 million lives annually. In Uganda, approximately 1% of newborns have heart disease, with 3,000 of them suffering from PDA. Dr. Omagino urged early detection and intervention and the need for comprehensive healthcare strategies to address congenital heart conditions in the country.
Dr. Barigye commended UHI for this initiative and expressed gratitude to the government for its unwavering support in making specialized heart healthcare accessible to every child in Uganda.
Dr. Omagino also addressed lifestyle choices and their impact on heart disease in adults, emphasizing that 86% of heart diseases are preventable. He called for a balanced diet, regular physical exercise, and the creation of spaces for children to play in schools and institutions. He challenged local governments and workplaces to establish areas for employee exercise and encouraged organizations to sponsor programs aimed at improving the health and well-being of Ugandans.
Dr. Omagino concluded by stating that heart disease has become increasingly common in Uganda, affecting nearly every family in the country, making it crucial to adopt healthier lifestyles and preventive measures.
