In recognition of World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, Businesses for Health Papua New Guinea (B4H) visited Cricket Papua New Guinea (CPNG) for an informative, interactive session and fielded lots of questions dedicated to the National Men’s and Women’s Cricket Teams and the Cricket PNG Staff.
In a different kind of training session for the Baramundis, Lewas and Siales, B4H aimed to empower the country’s sporting heroes as role models in the fight against TB, a disease that disproportionately affects young, working-age individuals in PNG.
“Despite their elite status, our athletes are not immune to TB,” said Margaret Sibona, Cricket PNG’s Senior Manager for Special Projects.
During the session many players acknowledged losses of family, friends and players to the disease.
“The rates of TB in the big villages are so high. Our players can play a part in raising awareness about TB, HIV and childhood vaccinations,” Sibona said.
“Our focus is on the importance of early TB case finding, and the need to change societal mindsets regarding coughs and respiratory health. With TB rates remaining alarmingly high in the NCD (National Capital District), even the healthiest among us can be affected,” said Teresa Koratsi TB HEO with B4H.
Dr Ann Clarke, director of Businesses for Health PNG, said: “On this World TB Day, we are so pleased to take a step towards ending TB by equipping our sporting icons with the knowledge they need to lead and support early case finding.”
“By encouraging everyone to check every cough for TB, we can work together towards a healthier sports community and a healthier PNG.”
Nursing officers Lowen Sihare and Sharlo Lung provided the players with information and answers about TB prevention, free treatment, the importance of early detection, and ways to support those affected by the disease.
B4H and CPNG look forward to exploring how together they can leverage their unique platforms to inspire change and promote health awareness among their fans, workplaces and communities.
For more information about the event or to schedule interviews with key speakers from CPNG or B4H please contact Dr Clarke at annmclarke@businesses4health.com.
