Health and wellness workshops are an excellent tool for addressing public health issues and empowering communities with knowledge and resources. On Wednesday, November 20th, MEDLIFE, in collaboration with the Laderas de Amancaes community in Lima, Peru, hosted a workshop focused on anemia prevention and detection. This workshop provided essential health services that are otherwise difficult to obtain in the community, as well as provided information about the importance of Pap smears and nutrition.
A Community-Centered Event
The anemia workshop took place at the community center in Laderas de Amancaes. Local leaders were already hard at work preparing dishes for a nutritious food tasting, featuring pan con sangrecita and chaufa con sangrecita. These traditional dishes were a cornerstone of the workshop, offering practical dietary solutions to help address anemia.
The event aimed to reach vulnerable groups, primarily children and women, with anemia screenings and Pap smear tests. Attendees traveled from nearby communities to participate, reflecting the widespread need for accessible health services. By the end of the day, over 100 anemia screenings had been conducted, identifying potential cases and providing critical follow-up guidance.
Comprehensive Screenings and Follow-Up Care
In addition to anemia screenings, the workshop included 13 Pap smears for women in attendance. Although several more women were evaluated, some did not meet the necessary requirements for the procedure. This only further highlighted the importance of ongoing health education and support, ensuring that women receive the care they need.
Meaningful conversations took place with follow-up patients, covering topics and concerns such as: “what are the causes of abnormal Pap smears?” and “how often does one need to get a Pap smear?” encouraging them to continue learning important information like this and prioritizing their health. MEDLIFE staff also met with mothers concerned about their children’s well-being, offering guidance on nutrition, health practices, and resources available to them.
Nutritious Food Tasting for Anemia Prevention
A highlight of the workshop was the food tasting, which showcased iron-rich meals designed to combat anemia. Pan con sangrecita and chaufa con sangrecita are traditional dishes rich in nutrients essential for healthy blood. The tasting was a success, warmly received by everyone in attendance. The enthusiastic response, even after the event’s scheduled end time, demonstrated the community’s eagerness to learn and engage in these health-focused initiatives.
The Impact of Health and Wellness Workshops
This event in Laderas de Amancaes underscored the power of global health strategies like health and wellness workshops to address critical public health issues through education, screenings, and community engagement. By providing accessible healthcare and nutritional guidance, MEDLIFE empowered participants to take charge of their health and well-being.
The workshop concluded around 7 p.m., with a strong sense of accomplishment and community solidarity. The participation and interest shown by community members highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in building healthier futures.
A Commitment to Health and Resilience
This impactful day reinforced MEDLIFE’s commitment to providing care, education, and support to those who need it most. Community-led efforts, like the anemia workshop, play a vital role in addressing public health challenges and promoting long-term wellness. By working together, MEDLIFE and the Laderas de Amancaes community are building healthier and more resilient futures.
To learn how you can volunteer abroad in a community like Laderas de Amancaes and assist those in need in accessing healthcare, education, and infrastructure, fill out the interest form below, download our free brochure, or check out our upcoming Service Learning Trips.