The Ministry of Health and Population announced that 24,003,777 citizens nationwide have been screened under the presidential initiative for the screening and treatment of chronic diseases and the early detection of kidney disease since its launch in September 2021.
Dr. Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, the ministry’s official spokesperson, explained that the initiative is being implemented through 3,601 primary healthcare units across all governorates. It targets citizens over the age of 40, as well as young people aged 18 and above who have risk factors or a medical history related to chronic diseases, with the aim of early detection and providing comprehensive healthcare services free of charge.
The initiative includes blood pressure, random and HbA1c blood sugar, lipid levels, kidney function, and body mass index (BMI) tests. It also provides health awareness sessions and regular follow-up programs. Patients receive free monthly medications, while cases requiring specialized intervention are referred to hospitals at the state’s expense.
Abdel Ghaffar emphasized that the initiative follows the latest scientific guidelines developed in collaboration with the World Health Organization, with continuous training for medical teams to ensure accurate screening and prompt referrals, creating an integrated link between primary and specialized healthcare.
The spokesperson urged all citizens—particularly those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of chronic diseases—to visit the nearest primary healthcare unit and benefit from the initiative’s free services. He stressed that early detection remains the best way to prevent complications and that citizens’ health is a top priority for the state.
🖋️ source: Akhbar El Youm Portal
