Harare,(New Ziana) – In a move to promote early detection and management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), the Premier Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS) has launched a comprehensive onsite wellness screening program at its Head Office in the capital.

The initiative, which began on Tuesday and will run up to Friday, offers free health screenings to PSMAS members, with plans to expand the program to other provinces and districts across the country later this year.

The program focuses on diseases largely linked to lifestyle factors and, in some cases, genetic predispositions such hypertension, diabetes, and various forms of cancer.

In an interview, the Population Health and Wellness Coordinator at PSMAS, Dr Tapiwa Chiworeka said the initiative is designed to encourage early detection and timely intervention, which are critical in managing and even eliminating certain conditions.

“We are advocating for early detection and identification of these diseases. Once someone is diagnosed, we refer them to our various referral pathways to ensure they receive prompt treatment. For diseases like cancer, early detection can be life-saving, and we are committed to providing the necessary support,” he said.

He said the wellness screenings cover a wide range of health checks, including blood pressure and blood sugar level tests, as well as mental health assessments.

Dr Chiworeka added that special attention is being given to gender-specific cancers, with men over the age of 45 being screened for prostate cancer and women over 40 receiving cervical and breast cancer screenings.

He emphasized the importance of these screenings, particularly for PSMAS members in Harare. “We encourage all our members to take advantage of this opportunity. Early detection is just the first step. Where risk factors are identified, we will assist with treatment and ongoing management to ensure better health outcomes.”

New Ziana