ORAL HEALTH: Data collected from urban centres shows that oral cancer has significantly increased over the last decade. Karachi has an alarming number of oral cancer patients. There is a need to raise awareness among the masses about oral health issues, like swelling of the gums, dental caries, oral stomatitis, oral infections and compromised mouth conditions due to lack of proper brushing.

Dr Kashif Mastoi
Nawabshah

SANITATION CRISIS: Karachi faces a significant health crisis as cases of mala-ria, dengue, chikungunya, and gastro-fever continue to surge. Major public-sector hospitals are overwhelmed and reporting over 150 new cases daily. There is a dire need to improve the level of sanitation in the city. Pools of stagnant water must be cleared, while the public should focus on maintaining hygiene and prioritising vegetables in their diet.

Uzair Baloch
Hub

GONE TOO SOON: A 20-year-old expectant mother from Nazarabad in Kech district lost her life recently due to the unavailability of doctors and required facilities at the local rural health centre (RHC). She was compelled to travel first to Turbat where she was informed that she had already lost the child in her womb, and her own condition was not too good. Tragically, she passed away while being taken to Karachi for the necessary trea-tment. This heart-wrenching incident highlights the dire need for improved healthcare facilities and more medical professionals in Balochistan where mate-rnal mortality rate is alarmingly high.

Kaleem Baloch
Hub

TRAFFIC SIGNAL: The traffic signal at Giddu Chowk has been non-functional for a long time. This intersection facilitates the convergence of four routes, leading to significant traffic congestion, especially during school hours. As a result, people often experience delays. It is imperative for the authorities concerned to make the signal functional as soon as possible.

Malika Salam
Hyderabad

Published in Dawn, October 24th, 2024