The Cross River Government, in partnership with Helen Keller International, will provide free hydrocelectomy surgeries to 100 persons affected by hydrocele, beginning Aug. 19.
Dr Henry Ayuk, the state’s Commissioner for Health, said this at a one-day morbidity management and disability prevention planning meeting for the exercise on Tuesday in Calabar.
Hydrocele is a condition in which excess fluid collects in the sac surrounding a testicle, causing the scrotum to become swollen or enlarged.
Represented by Dr Jonah Offor, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Ayuk said the intervention targeted boys and men aged 15 years and above, as part of efforts to manage complications arising from lymphatic filariasis.
Ayuk said 50 beneficiaries would be treated at General Hospital Akamkpa, while another 50 would receive treatment at General Hospital Obubra from Aug. 19 to Aug. 24.
“Hydrocele has serious physical, psychological, social and economic consequences, but these surgeries will restore beneficiaries’ dignity, confidence and ability to lead productive lives.
“I commend Helen Keller International and other development partners for supporting the state’s efforts to prevent and control neglected tropical diseases,” he said.
Similarly, Mr Godwin Omeji, State Coordinator, Neglected Tropical Diseases Control Programme, said hydrocele resulted from untreated lymphatic filariasis, causing abnormal scrotal swelling.
Omeji said preventive chemotherapy had been completed, while attention had shifted to managing complications among persons affected by untreated lymphatic filariasis.
He said community mobilisation had begun to identify affected persons, adding that eligible beneficiaries not accommodated would be documented for subsequent surgical sessions.
He, however, identified inadequate funding, stigma and transportation costs as major challenges, urging increased budgetary support and greater involvement of primary healthcare centres.
Ms Unyime Ekpoudia, Helen Keller International’s State Coordinator, said beneficiaries would receive postoperative monitoring, with follow-up visits scheduled after discharge to detect complications.
“The two selected hospitals will also serve patients referred from neighbouring local government areas who have endured physical discomfort and social stigma.”
The intervention, aligned with the World Health Organization’s 2030 elimination target, is expected to restore dignity, improve livelihoods and reduce stigma among affected residents.