KAFP update on arterial hypertension
October 19, 2011Tengizchevroil has a long tradition of supporting health care projects to improve the health and well-being of the Atyrau population, and Empowering the Community to Reduce and Manage Hypertension in Atyrau Region is an example of such projects. Implemented by Kazakhstan Association of Family Physicians (KAFP) and sponsored by Tengizchevroil as part of the Community Investment Program, this initiative is aimed to improve primary health care for hypertensive patients in Atyrau.
It’s not an accident that Tengizchevroil has chosen to support the project proposed by KAFP, as arterial hypertension is the main risk factor for developing a cardiovascular disease, which is number one cause of death globally according to the World Health Organization, and Kazakhstan is not an exception.
To achieve the goal KAFP opened two arterial hypertension schools, one in Atyrau City and one in Issatay District where professional physicians provide education and training to the patients. For example, 28 patients with arterial hypertension attended the schools in September and learned how to cope with their condition and the right ways to reduce risks associated with hypertension. Besides schools, to reach broader audience KAFP actively utilizes TV, print media and web. Official website of the association is rich with educational resources and physician advice. Another great source we all can learn a lot from is a Youtube social network, where KAFP hosts its official channel. There is a video available to watch both in Russian and Kazakh, it gives us an opportunity to learn about arterial hypertension, its risks and the ways to prevent its development.
We hope to make further contribution in health care improvement throughout Atyrau region and we believe our efforts will result in better well-being of the community.