Kaduna Health Board Addresses Menstrual Hygiene for Disabled Girls

Adolescent girls with disabilities at the Kaduna State Special Education School (KADSSES) are facing significant challenges in managing menstrual hygiene due to inadequate water supply. This issue was highlighted during a sensitization program organized by the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board (KSPHCB) on 15 October, with support from UNICEF and the Society for Family Health.

The program aimed to educate approximately 1,000 disabled children on sexual and reproductive health, menstrual hygiene, mental health, and the prevention of gender-based violence. Bilkisu Tanimu Zailani, the adolescent desk officer at KSPHCB, noted that the school was chosen because adolescents with disabilities are often excluded from health awareness initiatives.

The program revealed gaps in the students' understanding of menstrual hygiene and mental health, prompting the need for targeted interventions. Amos Isuwa, head of HIV Counselling and Testing at Barau Dikko Specialist Hospital, emphasized the importance of inclusion in health education.

The program is scheduled to run until 19 October.