MORE than 200 people benefitted from a free medical camp aimed at helping those from the B40 group detect chronic diseases.
The camp, themed “Better Bersama”, offered health screenings such as for diabetes and cholesterol, as well as tips on breast self-examination.
Held at People’s Housing Project (PPR) Kota Damansara in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, it was spearheaded by HELP University’s Rotaract Club with the support of the Rotary Clubs of Bandar Utama, Melawati, Cheras and Bukit Bintang.
Organising chairman Dr Navin Patel, who is also the charter president of Rotary Club of Melawati, said the medical camp was part of its community service efforts.
Advising the public to go for medical check-ups regularly, he said: “Do not assume that you are always in good health, especially when your family has a history of chronic diseases and cancer.
“Cancer can strike early, so even the young are not immune.
“Early detection of cancer is always better.”
The camp was launched by Kota Damansara assemblyman Muhammad Izuan Ahmad Kasim.
“The low-income community is already struggling to put food on the table, which may lead to them neglecting their health.
“This is why events like these are very important for them to find out their health status,” said Muhammad Izuan.
Dr Navin said Rotary Clubs empowered the university’s Rotaract Club members by offering them support.
“They are very passionate about conducting such events but have no resources.
“I believe this is a good learning experience for them and am confident that they will be able to hold more events by themselves in the future.”
The university’s Rotaract Club community service department director Airyn Jasmine Farid Emran said she gained a lot of experience through organising the event, which was her first.
“I have always wanted to provide those from the B40 group access to health services.
“Moving forward, I wish to inspire more volunteers to join or even create programmes together,” she said.
Meanwhile, the club’s president Veronica Berty David said there were plans to organise a medical camp for the indigenous community in the future.
Other health checks included for blood pressure, body mass index and cancer markers, alongside activities such as colouring contest and lucky draw.
