The Minister of State for Disability Affairs, Hellen Grace Asamo, has raised concern over the high prevalence of Spina bifida and Hydrocephalus in Uganda. She noted that these conditions have become significant public health concerns in the country.
“Spina bifida is a significant public health concern in Uganda. It is estimated that 11.7% in 10,000 live births in the country are affected by this condition,” she said.
Speaking at the Uganda Media Center, ahead of this year’s Commemoration of the World Day for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, Asamo, called for equal opportunities and inclusion for individuals with spina bifida and hydrocephalus.
Spina bifida is a birth defect where a developing baby’s spinal cord fails to develop properly. It occurs when the spinal cord doesn’t close properly while in the womb.
Hydrocephalus is the accumulation of fluid in the brain’s cavities. The excess fluid puts pressure on the brain and can cause brain damage. It is most common in infants and older adults
Spina bifida often leads to lifelong physical and cognitive disabilities, including the co-occurring condition known as hydrocephalus, which affects the accumulation and circulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain.
Hydrocephalus affects over 8,000 persons per year and 40% of the cases have post-infectious hydrocephalus, 30% due to spina bifida and 30% is congenital hydrocephalus.
Asamo noted that despite this high prevalence of Spina bifida and hydrocephalus in Uganda, there is a lack of public awareness and understanding about the condition, resulting in social stigma, discrimination, and limited accessibility of services and information for affected individuals and their families.
“Due to the limited awareness and understanding of Spina bifida and hydrocephalus, affected individuals and their families do not have access to crucial information on prevention, early diagnosis, and management of the condition. This ignorance contributes to delayed interventions and increased health complications. In
addition, there is limited information on prevention which has led to increased prevalence,” she said.
She noted that by promoting awareness, accessibility, and empowerment, will create a more inclusive society for individuals with Spina bifida and hydrocephalus.
“This will help reduce the burden of disability and enable affected individuals to lead more fulfilling lives with improved health outcomes,” she said.