The hum of dedicated learning filled the Baptist Centre in Nkwen, Bamenda from March 26th to 28th, 2025 as nurses from across CBC Health Services facilities converged for a crucial three-day training focused on Diabetes, Hypertension, and Obesity management. The intensive workshop aimed at equipping these frontline healthcare professionals with the latest knowledge and skills to better manage non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in CBC Health Services facilities.
The first day laid a comprehensive foundation, delving into the disease overviews, diagnostic approaches, evidence-based management strategies, and effective patient counselling techniques for Diabetes and Hypertension. The following day shifted focus to Obesity, with the Program Manager, Mr. Takwe Boniface, expertly guiding the nurses through its classification, intricate risk factors, epidemiological trends, and the nuances of taking a thorough patient history.
Practical skills were honed under the guidance of Dr. Yemlu Napoleon from Nkwen Baptist Hospital, who provided vital hands-on training in conducting physical examinations, understanding relevant laboratory investigations, and implementing crucial non-pharmacological management strategies for Obesity.
Beyond the core clinical topics, the training adopted a holistic approach to patient care. Insightful presentations from the NCD Program Officer, the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Officer, the Sports Coordinator, and the Communication Officer underscored the importance of data-driven decision-making, the role of physical activity in NCD prevention, and effective communication strategies for health promotion.
Day three focused on intensifying knowledge for staff from the new NCD Prevention and Control Sites, a rigorous session on March 28, specifically tailored on the “Know Your Numbers” (KYN) strategy championed by CBC Health Services. These new locations, which include Finkwi, Kwighe, and Makenene Baptist Health Centres, along with Meskine Baptist Hospital in Maroua were poised to significantly broaden the reach of NCD care.
It was meticulous training on the proper measurement and calibration of essential medical equipment, accurate techniques for measuring vital health numbers, the correct procedures for filling out the crucial REAF (reporting form), and the interpretation of Diabetes and Hypertension risk scores. Crucially, the new sites received practical knowledge on how to effectively run a KYN Unit within their respective facilities.
At the close of the workshop, the impact resonated deeply with both the organizers and the participants. The Program Manager, Mr. Takwe Boniface expressed his satisfaction with the nurses’ dedication and the comprehensive nature of the training. He stated, “We have equipped these staff to effectively assess individuals with high body weight and those at risk of developing non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and cancer. They have also been trained to conduct community awareness campaigns, educating people about the increasing global prevalence of NCDs, including Cameroon.”
Mr. Takwe further emphasized the significance of the third day of training, specifically for staff from the new NCD prevention and control sites. He noted that this training was crucial for strengthening the national NCD prevention and control efforts and ensuring that all citizens have equal access to quality care, particularly given the novelty of such activities in those sites.
Participants themselves expressed profound appreciation for the depth and practicality of the training. One nurse from an existing facility shared, “The hands-on sessions, especially on physical examinations and non-pharmacological management of obesity, were incredibly valuable. I feel much more confident in providing comprehensive care to my patients.”
A nurse from one of the new sites, Meskine Baptist Hospital, remarked, “The intensive training on the ‘Know Your Numbers’ strategy was exactly what we needed. We now have a clear understanding of how to implement this vital program in our community and contribute to early detection and prevention of NCDs”.
It is important to highlight here that the CBC Health Services now has a surgeon at Mboppi Baptist Hospital Douala who is obesity specialist, so any body living with morbid obesity and need assistance can benefit from our services at Mboppi Baptist Hospital, be it a child or an adult, the specialist can give them care.
With their enhanced knowledge and renewed dedication, these empowered nurses are now returning to their respective facilities, ready to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities affected by NCDs. Expanding services to Finkwi, Kwighe, Makenene, and Meskine marks an exciting new chapter in CBC Health Services’ commitment to providing accessible and quality NCD prevention and control for all.