Dr. Joshua Muwaga astaff at herona Educates Ugandans on Hernia During NTV Live Health Program
In a recent episode of NTV’s Live Health program, Dr. Joshua Muwaga, a respected medical practitioner, at herona community hospital one of the best hospitals in mukono district and a Centre of excellence for hernia surgery located 14km of wantoni stage along kisoga katosi road , delivered an insightful and comprehensive discussion on hernia, a common yet often misunderstood medical condition affecting many Ugandans. The program aimed to raise public awareness about the nature of hernias, their causes, signs and symptoms, and available management options.
Dr. Muwaga began by defining a hernia as a condition that occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. He explained that hernias can develop in various parts of the body, but the most common types include inguinal (groin), umbilical (around the navel), femoral, and incisional hernias. He emphasized that while hernias can affect anyone, they are more prevalent among men, particularly those engaged in heavy physical labor.
Addressing the causes, Dr. Muwaga highlighted that hernias often result from a combination of muscle weakness and strain. Factors such as chronic coughing, constipation, obesity, pregnancy, and lifting heavy objects without proper technique can increase the risk. He also noted that some individuals are born with weak abdominal walls, making them more susceptible to developing hernias later in life.
During the discussion, Dr. Muwaga outlined the key signs and symptoms that should alert individuals to seek medical attention. These include a visible or palpable bulge under the skin, discomfort or pain at the site of the bulge—especially when bending, coughing, or lifting—and a feeling of heaviness or pressure in the abdomen. In severe cases, he warned, a hernia can become strangulated, cutting off blood supply to the affected tissue, which constitutes a medical emergency requiring immediate surgical intervention.
On management, Dr. Muwaga explained that the definitive treatment for most hernias is surgical repair. He described two main approaches: open surgery and laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery. Both methods aim to return the protruding tissue to its proper place and strengthen the weakened area of the abdominal wall. He also discussed preventive measures, such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding excessive straining, quitting smoking, and practicing safe lifting techniques.
Throughout the program, Dr. Muwaga emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. He encouraged viewers not to ignore persistent abdominal swelling or discomfort, as timely medical evaluation can prevent complications and improve outcomes. He also commended the efforts of healthcare institutions across Uganda that continue to provide surgical services and community health education to reduce the burden of hernia-related illnesses.
The NTV Live Health segment concluded with a call to action for Ugandans to prioritize regular medical check-ups and adopt healthier lifestyles. Dr. Muwaga’s presentation was widely appreciated for its clarity, depth, and relevance, contributing significantly to public understanding of hernia and reinforcing the role of media in promoting health education across the nation.