Vanguard clinic takes diabetes awareness to the community
Bonteheuwel and Langa residents came in numbers to commemorate the World Diabetes Day event on Thursday.
Image: Phiri Cawe
The Vanguard Community Health Clinic's Vuyokazi Botile and Ashwyn du Plooy were happy with the attendance at the World Diabetes Day event last Thursday in Bonteheuwel.
Image: Phiri Cawe
Not only did community members sit and listen to speakers during the Diabetes Day, they participated in exercises too.
Image: Phiri Cawe
In an effort to take healthcare services to the community, the Vanguard Community Health Clinic (CHC) hosted a World Diabetes Day event on Thursday, November 13, at the local community hall.
The aim was to bring essential health services closer to residents while raising awareness about the growing burden of diabetes and other lifestyle-related diseases.
The hall was filled with residents from Bonteheuwel and Langa, many of whom took the opportunity to undergo health screenings for diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic conditions.
Exhibitors from various organisations and the health sector were also present to provide information, guidance, and demonstrations on healthy living.
The event formed part of the clinic’s ongoing community outreach programme, which focuses on prevention, education, and early detection.
Speaking to Athlone News, family physician Dr. Adil Razack said the initiative was designed to bridge the gap between healthcare services and the people who need them most. “We are concerned about the increasing number of people diagnosed with diabetes in Bonteheuwel and Langa. However, diabetes is not just a local problem — it is a global health challenge,” said Dr. Razack.
“Our goal is to encourage people to eat healthier, stay active, and make small lifestyle changes that can prevent complications and improve their quality of life.”
Ashwyn du Plooy, chairperson of the Vanguard Health Committee, said continuous awareness and early testing were important.
“We are here to bring awareness to the community because diabetes is one of the top three most dangerous diseases in South Africa,” said Ms. Du Plooy. “Knowing your health status is vital. Diabetes is manageable, but it requires discipline, regular check-ups, and a commitment to healthy living.”
Vuyokazi Botile, a health promoter at the CHC, praised residents for taking an active role in their health. “It was wonderful to see the people of Bonteheuwel and Langa come out in such large numbers,” said Ms. Botile.
“It shows that our community truly cares about its health. We urge everyone to continue coming for screenings — not only for diabetes but for all other conditions too.”