Kisumu County, in collaboration with various partners, commemorated World Preeclampsia Day at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) under the theme “Predict, Prevent, Prevail.”

The event brought together stakeholders including TINADA Youth Organization, USAID Boresha Jamii, White Ribbon Organization, Wonder Healthcare, and the Health and Economic Development Strategy Organization (HEDSO).

Dr. Agnes Dawa, Kisumu’s Coordinator for Maternal Health, opened the event by welcoming participants and acknowledging the partners’ support. She underscored the significance of the theme and its connection to maternal health.

Dr. Dawa delivered a comprehensive presentation on pre-eclampsia, a pregnancy-related hypertensive disorder that poses significant risks to both mothers and babies. She outlined the dangers associated with the condition, including maternal complications like kidney failure, liver damage, and neurological problems. It can also lead to restricted fetal growth, newborn complications, and even death. Dr. Dawa revealed that pre-eclampsia is a leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide, accounting for half of the 70,000 annual deaths.

At JOOTRH, hypertensive disorders and pregnancy-related complications have been responsible for eight out of 15 maternal deaths so far this year. Dr. Dawa then introduced representatives from various sub-county facilities present at the event.

The event featured powerful testimonies from pre-eclampsia survivors, referred to as “warriors.” Lucy Oduor, a mother of three with a history of pre-eclampsia, shared her experience during her most recent pregnancy. Despite recognizing symptoms like swollen feet and high blood pressure, she initially dismissed them due to a negative urinalysis result. However, her condition worsened, leading to a four-day hospitalization. Fortunately, an ultrasound confirmed the baby’s well-being, and Lucy eventually delivered a healthy baby girl, crediting the positive outcome to the care she received.

Emeldah Adhiambo, diagnosed with high blood pressure at one month pregnant, delivered a healthy baby boy through cesarean section at JOOTRH. Catherine Atieno, transferred from another hospital due to pre-eclampsia, also delivered a healthy baby at JOOTRH. Risper Awino, another survivor who is currently pregnant after a previous pre-eclampsia-related miscarriage, expressed her confidence and hope for a safe delivery under JOOTRH’s care. Dorcas Atieno, referred from another hospital, delivered a healthy baby who is now thriving thanks to JOOTRH’s exceptional care.

Dr. Leah Okiri, a consultant Obstetrician at JOOTRH, also shared her personal story of battling pre-eclampsia. She emphasized the importance of vigilant monitoring and early intervention.

Dr. Simiyu Wambaya elaborated on the “3Ps” of pre-eclampsia management:

• Predict: Identifying risk factors such as pre-existing conditions and multiple pregnancies.

• Prevent: Implementing lifestyle changes, nutritional support, and regular checkups.

• Prevail: Ensuring early diagnosis, effective interventions, and well-equipped healthcare facilities.

Dr. Beatrice Oloo of USAID Boresha Jamii and Dr. Florence Okech, County Director of Nursing, also delivered remarks, highlighting the day’s success and the importance of continued collaboration.

Monicah Adhiambo, CEO of KMET Organization and the chief guest, commended JOOTRH’s efforts and emphasized the need for increased awareness and referral services. She urged partners to work together to bring down maternal mortality rates in Kisumu.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Rosebellah Apollo, a midwife at JOOTRH, and a word of prayer.

The successful event was made possible with the support of TINADA Youth Organization, USAID Boresha Jamii, White Ribbon Organization, and HEDO.