This year in August, within the framework of the UN Joint Program "Building the Resilience of Communities Affected by the Aral Sea Disaster through a Multi-Partner Human Security Fund for the Aral Sea", UN Volunteers with the assistance of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Karakalpakstan conducted a survey to assess the level of basic knowledge of the population about respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal diseases, as well as mother and child health.
The questionnaire also included the questions on behavior, practices, and timely appliances of the rural population for medical aid. Over 1325 residents of 10 districts of Karakalpakstan participated in the survey.
On 30 November 2017, a workshop was held to discuss the results of the survey and further UNV activities with the participation of representatives from the Ministry of Health of Karakalpakstan, Association of Nurses, SRI Public Health and Health Organization, Women's Committee of Karakalpakstan and other organizations.
The results of the survey reveal that the population has only a general knowledge of respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal diseases. Most of the respondents do not have enough information about the types of diseases and the etiology, and difference of symptoms.
In order to ensure the health of population by improving the medical culture and knowledge on preventative measures for the diseases, a number of recommendations were developed, such as organization of health education activities for population of the target districts. It is noted that, great importance has the active work of the UN Volunteers and community volunteers in dissemination of knowledge and information materials to population.
It is expected that, as a result of the meeting, a mechanism will be established for the cooperation of community volunteers with medical specialists, patronage nurses of rural family polyclinics in the field to more effectively combat outbreaks and timely prevention of the diseases.
