NYC to spearhead Nationwide Caravan on Youth Drug Abuse Prevention

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Sept 25 (PIA) -- To combat drug abuse, the National Youth Commission (NYC) spearheaded a Nationwide Caravan on Youth Drug Abuse Prevention and Control on September 21 at the Naga College Foundation Auditorium here.

One of the highlights of the said activity is the launch of “Barkada Kontra Droga- Bagets edition,” where participants have their declaration read during the plenary.

Target age group includes 15 years old up with emphasis on dropout students with history of drug dependence.

NYC Luzon Area Officer Nydia P. Delfin said they have invited youth organizations, local government officials, other stakeholders and members of the tri media to participate in the said endeavor.

The participants were updated with the current national youth situation and the drug abuse situation in the Philippines and in their respective localities.

Statistical results of the studies and other relevant data on the use of prohibited drugs shall likewise be discussed in the said forum.

Youth partakers also had the opportunity to join in discussions on their role in drug abuse prevention. The session will collectively discuss the cause and effect of prohibited drugs and the role of the youth in combating the ill effects of the said substance.

To provide the participants with the clearer picture of the government’s effort in addressing the said menace, a session on the discussion of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, was also part of the discussion focusing on the legal mandate and policies provided by the government to address the issue on the use of prohibited drugs.

At the end of the day, the youth participants were challenged to be an advocate of change in the fight against drug.

An advocacy plan is expected to be drafted for implementation by youth serving and youth-led organizations.

A facilitator will assign a specific strategic area of focus for plans for each group which will later be presented for amendments and comments.

Originally slated August 28, the caravan was moved to a later date to give way to the state funeral given to the late Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse M. Robredo. (LSMacatangay/ PIA- Camarines Sur)


PIA, NKTI hold awareness campaign on kidney health care

By Analiza S. Macatangay

NAGA CITY, Camarines Sur, Sept 25 (PIA) -- The National Kidney and Transplant Institute-Renal Disease Control Program (NKTI-Redcop) has partnered with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) to hold publicity and promotions through activities that will raise the awareness on renal health care and prevention.

PIA-Camarines Sur has invited Dr. Rizalina Ramos during its monthly program, “Forum @ PIA” to clarify issues about kidney infections, which is considered as one of the leading health problems among Filipinos.

Ramos, in her discussion during the forum and press conference held at the Naga City Hall blue room on Friday, said an average of 10 patients are added to the new list of patients seeking medical attention every month at the Bicol Medical Center (BMC).

“This is an alarming rate considering the fact that each month, consultations ranging from simple kidney infections to schedules of dialysis treatment is being added up to our list,” Ramos added.

Ramos cited some of the prevailing diseases affecting the kidney, which most often than not, leads to chronic renal failure or the gradual and progressive loss of the ability of the kidneys to excrete wastes, concentrate urine and conserve electrolytes.

On top of the list is infection, which is the most common disorder of the kidneys and urinary tract. Obstructions, which include kidney stones, could lead to infection of the kidneys and subsequent scarring. Obstructions are solid residues in the urinary tract that may cause obstruction to the flow of urine. Abnormalities in the urinary tract that are congenital or inborn may lead to poor function of the kidney.

Ramos also cited high blood pressure or hypertension and diabetes as some of the most common illnesses, which eventually triggers kidney failure.

“Prolonged hypertension damages the small arteries in the kidneys. This may start a vicious cycle: damaged kidneys cause more serious hypertension which in turn brings more damage to the kidneys. Diabetes on the other hand, may also contribute in the damage of one's kidney and is considered as the leading cause of chronic failure.”

Still in line with NKTI's promotional activities, PIA-Camarines Sur has also invited Dr. Abigail Abonal, also a nephrologist to guest in one of the local television shows here, primarily to share the same information and awareness to viewers.

Abonal said that one of the best ways to avoid the chronic renal failure is to simply submit oneself to at least a yearly check-up, including blood and creatinine test.

“The best solution is still prevention. Avoid salty foods, drugs, herbal medicines, fast food and junk foods. Let us go back to the basics, fruits, vegetables and fish,” Abonal said. (MAL/LSM/PIA5-Camarines Sur)