Cross River to Offer Free Hydrocele Surgeries for 100 Men

The Cross River State Government, in partnership with Helen Keller International, has initiated plans to provide free hydrocelectomy surgeries for 100 individuals suffering from hydrocele, a condition linked to lymphatic filariasis. This intervention, the third phase of the program, targets men and boys aged 15 and above, with surgeries scheduled from August 19 to 24 at General Hospital Akamkpa and General Hospital Obubra.

Godwin Omeji, the State Coordinator of the Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) Control Programme, stated that the initiative follows the completion of preventive chemotherapy interventions and focuses on managing complications from untreated cases. Challenges such as inadequate funding for mobilizing beneficiaries and stigma associated with the condition were highlighted.

Unyime Ekpoudia, the Cross River State Coordinator of Helen Keller International, expressed optimism that the surgeries would restore dignity and improve the livelihoods of affected individuals. The program will also document those unable to receive treatment for future surgeries.