The Pediatric Unit of the Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital (ENRH) has commemorated Newborn Jaundice Awareness month with a family meeting at the hospital’s conference center.
The event which has become a yearly affair brings together representatives of both public and private health facilities in the Western Region including Sycamore Medical Centre, Essikado Hospital, Jubilee Children’s Hospital and others as well as parents and caregivers to raise awareness about neonatal jaundice.
The opening ceremony featured an insightful address by Pediatric specialist Dr. Yaa Appiah Nkansah, who emphasized the gravity of neonatal jaundice, stating, “One-third of child deaths recorded in healthcare facilities are due to jaundice.” She indicated that early detection is key to effective management.
The theme for this year was “From Awareness to Action: Promoting Timely Diagnosis and Treatment for All Jaundiced Newborns Across Ghana”
The meeting shared informative presentations on the causes and management of neonatal jaundice. Jaundice is characterized by a yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes in infants, caused by elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood.
Risk factors such as the use of camphor and the presence of G6PD deficiency were highlighted as part of awareness creation in the month.
The meeting was characterized by a role-play on neonatal jaundice case management. Awards were given to some deserving staff and stakeholders.
The Medical Director, of ENRH Dr. Joseph Kojo Tambil, was presented with a plaque in recognition of his years of sponsorship and unwavering support toward the pediatric unit.
The day was climaxed with the cutting of a cake.
STORY BY:
STAYCE ADAMS
PR UNIT
