Kampala Key, Vulnerable and Priority Populations (KVP) News

This is the third and final part on the series on Fistula: A fistula: A fistula is a hole, or abnormal opening, in the birth canal, that results in chronic leakage of urine and/or feaces. Obstetric Fistula:   An abnormal opening between a woman’s genital tract and her urinary tract or rectum. According to  fistulacare.org , each year, more than a quarter million women die in pregnancy and childbirth. Of those that do not perish, an unknown number suffer long-term health problems. The maternal injury with perhaps the most devastating aftermath is  obstetric fistula .   Obstetric fistula due to  obstructed labour is by far the most common form of genital fistula, constituting an estimated 80-90% of all genital fistula cases.   Obstetric fistula is usually caused by several days of obstructed labor, without timely medical intervention or cesarean section. During this time, the soft tissues of the pelvis are compressed between t...

This is the second of a series on Fistula: A fistula: A fistula is a hole, or abnormal opening, in the birth canal, that results in chronic leakage of urine and/or feaces. There are many resources one can use to get information on fistula condition. In a resource by Amie (2019), symptoms and types of fistula are listed. Symptoms: Symptoms of fistulas vary depending on their location and severity. However, some symptoms are common in most cases. People often feel very unwell and run a fever. They also feel pain or tenderness at the site of the fistula. Itching may develop, especially if the fistula involves skin. Fistulas often exude pus, which may have an unpleasant or foul smell. Risk Factors:   Certain conditions place a person at a higher risk of developing a fistula. Crohn's disease and diverticular disease are two conditions highly likely to cause fistulas. Around one in three people with Crohn's disease will get a fistula at some p...

This is the first of a series on Fistula. When one hears of Fistula, the next thing that comes to mind could be pregnancy and childbirth.   But, all of us should be concerned. There is a vulnerability and susceptibility in the event one is sexually active before the age of 18 years,   a victim of physical assault, rape, engages in use of sex toys, inserting or stashing objects in the vagina and anus during sexual play, torture or as a result of hiding objects that may be contraband. But, why should Key Populations (KP) be exceedingly concerned? There are six reasons why KP should be emancipated enough to contribute to reduction of Fistula cases in their communities. It is treatable and those who seek care go on to lead confident fulfilling lives. It affects a big number of people than previously known. Contributing to its reduction, means improving health and achievement of the SDGs. You may be called upon to take care of someone after surgery. ...