MOH hosts health fair to raise Autism awareness

Apr 06, 2014 News

The Ministry of Health, (MOH) has embarked on a two day health fair aimed at sensitizing the public on Autism and other health issues.
As such, several booths offering free health care services to the public were erected at the Square of the Revolution yesterday, in honour of World Autism Awareness day, which was observed earlier last week.

One of the booths, offering health care services at Square of the Revolution, yesterday.

Staff of the Ministry provided free check-ups including dental, optical, diabetic, hypertension, to members of the public.
Representatives of several organizations including the Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Fire Service and Guyana Police Force, Giftland Office Max, Bakewell and Geddes Grant Ltd, also lent their support to make the event possible. As such, free samples of merchandise and giveaways were also available throughout the event.
Minister of Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran noted that the activity is aimed at raising awareness about Autism.
“Autism is not is a disease, it’s a spectrum disorder meaning that there is a wide degree of variation in the way it affects people…symptoms range from impaired social interaction to verbal and non-verbal communication… Autism is a disorder caused by a problem with the brain …In Guyana there are children with Autism and even adults, but most of the population are unaware about Autism, thus they are unable to asses help.”
Minister Ramsaran added that there are a number of organizations that cater to children with Autism.
“Help is available, we have quite a few organizations here in Guyana that cater to persons with Autism; especially children. For this reason, we are bringing this issue to the forefront and we are seeking to address it just like other serious health issues and chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and arthritis, but first we must embark on a massive sensitization campaign.”
“Therefore tomorrow in honor of Autistic children the Ministry of Health will be hosting a fun day from 10:30hrs to 15:00hrs at the Wellness Park opposite the Square of the Revolution. We will start a tree planting exercise and will continue to host activities to raise awareness about Autism. Members of the public are invited and especially those interested in learning more about Autism and general health.”
Persons can also find useful information and assistance with regards to Autism at various regional rehabilitation centers, nationwide.