Babadjou Health Campaign Summary

About the Campaign

The Mercy Azoh-Mbi Heart Foundation partnered with The Cameroon English-speaking Medical Students Association (CAMESA) to run a one-week cardiovascular health campaign Babadjou, in Bamboutos Division, Cameroon. The team screened 621 people, most of them rural farmers over 45 years old, with women making up the majority.

Hypertension was the main finding, with 90 cases identified — a prevalence of 14.5%, consistent with national figures. Seventy-three were newly diagnosed, including 25 with asymptomatic hypertension and 48 with mild hypertension. Seventeen were already on treatment and received refills. No cases of hypertensive nephropathy were detected.

All patients received free medication, lifestyle counselling, and referral to local health centres. Obesity was observed among some participants, showing clustering of cardiovascular risk factors.

Logistics were coordinated smoothly with CAMESA, covering transport, lodging, meals, and medical supplies. Challenges included transport delays, rainy season terrain, and a lack of ECG equipment.

The campaign demonstrated the hidden burden of hypertension in rural communities, especially among women. It highlighted the importance of community-based screening, early treatment, and sustained outreach. Recommendations include acquiring independent screening equipment and strengthening contingency planning.

Overall, the campaign bridged healthcare gaps and reinforced the need for prevention, education, and stronger systems to reduce cardiovascular disease in Cameroon.