Author: Md. Saiful Alam

HAEFA’s Student-Led Teach-In Session at George Washington University Medical School

Posted on May 11, 2024May 11, 2024 by Md. Saiful Alam

HAEFA’s Student-Led Teach-In Session at George Washington University Medical School

On May 7^th, 2024, HAEFA’s George Washington medical school chapter hosted its inaugural meeting. The meeting was presented under a teach-in format with multiple speakers composed entirely of student leadership from the organization. The topics of the teach-in were the HAEFA’s humanitarian and clinical services using electronic medical record (EMR) system for the rural and underserved populations in Kurigram, Noakhali and Cox’s Bazar districts of Bangladesh. A major focus of the topics was also on the Rohingya FDMN/refugee crisis and HAEFA’s intervention within the camps. The six student presenters were as follows: Ishan Abdullah, Meagan Mitchell, Abdulla Ali, William Huang, Hannaka Spillman,& Omar Saadi. Highlighted during the meeting were HAEFA’s innovative see-and-treat approach for cervical cancer, community-based tuberculosis screening and treatment workflow, COVID-19 management, natural disaster aid, and the implementation of NIROG in remote and underserved areas of Bangladesh. After discussing HAEFA’s role, the goals of the student organization were reviewed, and upcoming opportunities for new members were revealed. The talk was concluded with a reminder about how the plight of global disadvantaged populations vastly extends past their media exposure and the duty of students today in educating themselves and others to ensure these people are continuously given the support they need, The student organization has two fundraisers planned for the upcoming months and hopes to host another dedicated teach-in session focused on HAEFA’s disaster response within refugee camps.

New Cervical Cancer Screening Training and Research Center

Posted on December 15, 2023December 15, 2023 by Md. Saiful Alam

New Cervical Cancer Screening Training and Research Center

The cervical Cancer Screening Training and Research Center of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), was inaugurated on February 20th, 2023, with the aim to become the regional training hub for cervical cancer in Bangladesh, providing training to providers from various districts and upazilas of Bangladesh.

The center has also received support from the Brown University Global Health Initiative and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)’s technical facilitators, who are providing their expertise to ensure the success of the center. In addition, these organizations are also involved in capacity building and strengthening public healthcare facilities for cervical cancer in nine upazilas of Kurigram District and six upazilas of Cox’s Bazar District. The center’s primary focus is on capacity building and training of service providers to improve the quality of cervical cancer screening and treatment in Bangladesh. By providing a centralized location for training, the center will be able to offer accessible and effective services to those in need.

HAEFA NEWSLETTER – May 2023

Posted on May 24, 2023July 18, 2023 by Md. Saiful Alam

CYCLONE MOCHA PUMMELS BANGLADESH COASTLINE, CAUSES EXTENSIVE DAMAGE

Cyclone Mocha pummelled the coastline of Bangladesh on the night of Sunday, May 14, 2023, wreaking widespread destruction. The violent storm left its mark on a staggering 2,548 shelters across 33 Rohingya refugee camps in the Ukhiya and Teknaf Upazilas of Cox’s Bazar. This resulted in the complete annihilation of approximately 278 residences.

According to an official report from the Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner’s Office, issued on the same day, 1,611 Rohingya refugees have been impacted, with seven injuries reported. Balukhali Camp 9 in Ukhiya bore the brunt of the storm, witnessing damage to around 485 shelters. In a preemptive move to ensure the safety of the Rohingya refugees, 3,031 individuals were relocated owing to the impending threat of landslides and torrential rain brought on by the cyclone. The HAEFA Health Post, a crucial healthcare facility in Balukhali Camp 09, also suffered considerable damage during the calamity.

Donate to Support Our Cause!

HAEFA is in need of your donations to support the healthcare and free medicines for 1.1 million Rohingya. refugees FDMN (Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals) in the makeshift camps and also for the underserved, hard-to-reach people living in the coastal and flood prone areas in Bangladesh. Any support, whether donations, outreach, aid in collaboration from personal and professional involvement, or any other method of support to HAEFA and its underprivileged, underserved, and displaced beneficiaries, would be greatly appreciated! All donations to HAEFA are tax-deductible as allowed by the laws of the United States.

𝑯𝑨𝑬𝑭𝑨’𝒔 𝑻𝒂𝒙 𝑰𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑵𝒖𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 (𝑬𝑰𝑵): 46-2997707
𝑵𝑻𝑬𝑬: Public Health Program (E70)
Text-to-Donate : 53-555 (Keyword: HAEFA)
Online Donations by PayPal, Credit or Debit card : www.haefa.org (Click the DONATE link)
You can also mail check addressed to “HAEFA” : 311 Bedford St, Lexington, MA 02420, USA

For more regular updates on the Rohingya refugees and other activities related to our organization, be sure to give us a like on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

HAEFA NEWSLETTER – April 2023

Posted on May 23, 2023May 23, 2023 by Md. Saiful Alam

A massive fire ripped through the Rohingya refugee camp

In the Rohingya community, a devastating fire is just the latest tragedy. A massive fire ripped through the Rohingya refugee camp in Ukhiya Upazila, Bangladesh’s southern district of Cox’s Bazar, on Sunday, March 5th, 2023, leaving around 12,000 people homeless.

The blaze started at about 8:45 and quickly tore through the bamboo-and-tarpaulin shelters. A devastating fire broke out in one the 33 camps hosting almost 1 million Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar district, Bangladesh (3). A fire started in Camp 11 and quickly spread to the neighboring camps, including Camp 10, a highly congested area. However, due to the wide drain separating Camp 10 from Camp 9 and the direction of the wind, Camp 9 was saved from the fire. Authorities and the fire brigades did their best to control the fire, and around 6 p.m., the fire had become under control (4).

It is estimated around 12,000 people, most of whom escaped violence in neighboring Myanmar, are now homeless (1). The devastating fire destroyed an estimated 2805 shelters (3). The blaze was brought under control within three hours but at least 35 mosques and 21 learning centers for the refugees were also destroyed (2). The blaze destroyed health and education facilities, water networks and other daily need materials for people living in the camp. Refugees in the most affected areas lost their belongings, including registration documents and other essential things.

The cause of the fire is not yet known and no casualties have been reported but the fire on Sunday razed many shelters after spreading quickly through gas cylinders in kitchens.

In Cox’s Bazar, Rohingya refugees face significant hassle. The camps have been hit by floods and landslides, highlighting Bangladesh’s climate change vulnerability. Between January 2021 and December 2022, there were 222 fire incidents in the Rohingya camps including 60 cases of arson, according to a Bangladesh defense ministry report released last month (1).

The casualty reports indicate that:

Approximately 2,805 shelters were destroyed by fire (3)
Roughly 12,000 FDMN were left homeless due to the fire.
35 mosques and 21 learning centers were burnt down.
Several other health posts were also destroyed in the fire.

The Rohingya are Muslims in largely Buddhist Myanmar, where they have faced persecution for generations. More than five years ago, hundreds of thousands of Rohingya poured into Bangladesh from neighboring Myanmar, where the marginalized group faced violence at the hands of the military described by the United Nations as ethnic cleansing.

About 1.2 million Rohingya—around 50 percent of them children—live in squalid conditions in Cox’s Bazar, in an area of less than seven square miles. Already, they have lost many things to previous violence in their homeland. Now because of this fire, these Rohingya for the second time become homeless and lost everything. These refugees are totally dependent on international aid. Providentially, different agencies are on the field with the support of the international community. Some agencies provide materials to meet their basic needs such as food, water or education. HAEFA (Health and Education for All) ,a NGO (non governmental organization), is one of those which is trying to help them from the beginning.

Although the fire was very closely located to the HAEFA health posts in Camp 09 and Camp 1W, the HAEFA medical team has been active in the affected areas from the very beginning of the fire. Preventive measures have been taken to protect the health posts as well as other medical facilities nearby, and medical assistance is being given to the thousands suffering from burns and injuries. HAEFA personnel have also been involved with the rescue efforts in the area, and as a result, critical healthcare services were given in time to many who needed it.

On March 6, an emergency medical team from HAEFA started working onsite to provide additional support to victims at the health posts. Md. Jahidul Islam, the Medical Assistant and Camp Coordinator at the Balukhali Camp 09, reports, “In the days since, we have treated three burn patients with dressing and medicine. The emergency required quick thinking and hard work, but it was all worth it.” The team has also collected important data, such as the previously stated numbers of shelters destroyed and newly homeless FDMNs, to better understand the extent of damage and work on the victims’ rehabilitation accordingly.

Kutupalong (Camp 1W):

More than 2,715 patients visited Camp 1W in Kutupalong and received healthcare services.
133 laboratory tests were conducted at HAEFA’s semi-automated NCD Pathological Laboratory

Balukhali (Camp 09):

More than 1,805 patients visited Camp 09 in Balukhali and received healthcare services.
195 laboratory tests were conducted at HAEFA’s semi-automated NCD Pathological Laboratory

FDMN Rohingya Camp at Bhashan Char:

More than 2,322 patients visited the HAEFA Medical Check-Up and Treatment for FDMN Rohingya Camp at Bhashan Char and received healthcare services

References:
(1)https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-64858932
(2)https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-64854843
(3)https://www.dhakatribune.com/foreign-affairs/2023/03/10/eu-releases-1m-in-emergency-aid-for-rohingya-camp-fire-victims
(4)https://www.npr.org/2023/03/06/1161248208/massive-fire-tears-through-a-crowded-rohingya-refugee-camp-in-bangladesh

At a glimpse: Healthcare services provided by HAEFA in Bangladesh

64,855 women (30-60 years) were screened for the detection of early-stage cervical cancer in 9 Upazilas of Kurigram from Nov. 2019 – Mar. 2023
42,895 women (30-60 years) were screened for the detection of early-stage cervical cancer in 6 Upazilas of Cox’s Bazar from July 2021 – March 2023
268,985 Rohingya refugees/FDMN in Ukhiya and Bangladeshi nationals living in the surrounding Ukhiya Upazila (sub-district) received free medical care in Cox’s Bazar from October 2017 to March 2023
48,140 Rohingya refugees/FDMN in Bhashan Char and Bangladeshi nationals living on the island have received free medical care in Bhashan Char, Noakhali, since November 2020
More than 3,930 Bangladeshi nationals in Ukhiya received free medical services from the Mobile Medical Clinics of HAEFA since 2022.
A total of 9,990 Diagnostic Lab Tests have been performed at HAEFA’s NCD-based Path Lab in camp 09 and 1w since January 2022.
More than 6,000 Healthcare providers were trained under the TOT program for Mental Health Support and Resilience Training in collaboration with Project HOPE
More than 3,000 physicians received the Advanced COVID-19 Clinical Management Certification online at the DGHS, MoHFW website. This course collaborates with DGHS, Brown University CHRHS, Project HOPE, HAEFA, USAID, and SCiB.
More than 40 students from classes six to twelve at (Bhawal Mirzapur Hazi Jamir Uddin School And College) received annual merit scholarships from 2019 till to date. This is a collaboration between HAEFA and M A Malek Education Scholarship Foundation.
COVID-19 Relief Effort for Underprivileged people :
HAEFA Provided a two-week supply of food packages for more than 1,500 families (5 members/family) in 5 districts of Bangladesh in 2021-2022.

Screening, Treatment & Management for Prevention of Cervical Cancer Training held

Cervical cancer is one of the most major health concerns in Bangladesh with a staggering 12,000 new cases and 6,000 deaths reported each year. With the aim to become the regional training hub for cervical cancer in Bangladesh, providing training to service providers from various districts and upazilas of the country, the Cervical Cancer Screening Training and Research Center of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), was inaugurated on February 20th, 2023, with the technical support of HAEFA and Brown University and funding support from the UNFPA and DGHS.

Training on Screening, Treatment & Management for Prevention of Cervical Cancer was held in three consecutive batches at Dhaka Medical College Hospital in February. The First Batch commenced from 11th February till 23rd February 2023, the Second Batch from 25th February till 9th March, 2023 and the Third Batch, from 11th March to 23rd March, 2023. In the 1st Batch, Gynae consultant from Ulipur UHC, Medical officer from District Hospital of kurigram & Bhurungamari, SSN from DH, Bhurungamari & Rawmari UHC, Also Mymensingh Medical College Hospital’s Gynae Consultant were present. The 2nd & 3rd batches included the presence of Cox’s Bazar District’s service providers, Gynae consultant and MO’s. A total of 44 service providers were trained by these training sessions.

The training programs were designed to conduct a 12-day training. In the first 6 days, VIA Basic training and in the following 6 days, Colposcopy basic training with advance management were held.

All batches were closed with a certificate giving ceremony, where Director of DMCH Dr. Nazmul Haque, Deputy Director Dr Md Zillur Rahman, Assistant Director of DMCH Dr Ashraful Alam, Gynae Departmental Head Prof. Dr Nazma Haque with additional 6 faculty members were present.

“Healthcare Campaign Week” held to commemorate the 103rd birthday of the Father of the nation

To celebrate the 103rd birthday of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and National Children’s Day, 10 camps were set up on “Cervical Cancer and Breast Cancer Screening”. The camps were a part of the “Healthcare Campaign Week,”and were held in different community clinics of different Upazilas on 23rd March 2023.

These camps were a collaboration between HAEFA and DGHS, Ministry of Health (MoHFW), Government of Bangladesh. One dedicated representative from the HAEFA Cervical Cancer Cox’s Bazar team for each camp site and three members monitoring unit visited different Community Clinics. A total number of 251 eligible women were screened.

Healthcare for the Rohingya FDMNs/Refugees

Since its establishment in October 2017, HAEFA’s healthcare workers have provided free medical care and medicine to the Rohingya FDMNs. In March 2023, more than 4,520 individuals received free medical care and diagnostic services from HAEFA.

Kutupalong (Camp 1W):

More than 2,320 patients visited Camp 1W in Kutupalong and received healthcare services.
130 laboratory tests were conducted at HAEFA’s semi-automated NCD Pathological Laboratory

Balukhali (Camp 09):

More than 1,610 patients visited Camp 09 in Balukhali and received healthcare services.
190 laboratory tests were conducted at HAEFA’s semi-automated NCD Pathological Laboratory

FDMN Rohingya Camp at Bhashan Char:

More than 2,330 patients visited the HAEFA Medical Check-Up and Treatment for FDMN Rohingya Camp at Bhashan Char and received healthcare services

HAEFA Cervical Cancer Screening and Treatment

In Kurigram District, HAEFA provided over 1408 women with cervical cancer screenings conducted in Upazila Health Complexes (UHCs). 50 patients were found VIA positive through the initial screening test and referred for further investigation and treatment.

In March 2023, more than 1660 women were screened in 06 VIA centers (Sadar Hospital, MCWC, Ramu UHC, Moheshkhali UHC, Chakaria UHC, Pekua UHC) and 10 VIA Camps including two hard-to-reach areas of Kutubdia and Moheshkhali. Thirty-five cases were found positive through the initial VIA screening test and referred for further investigation. The team followed up with them and organized Colposcopy in Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital and Chakaria UHC. Seventeen Colposcopies and three thermocoagulations were performed at Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital. The Cox’s Bazar Project team also followed up with seven previously identified cancer patients and referred them to Chattogram Medical College and the National Institute of Cancer Research & Hospital (NICRH), Mohakhali, Dhaka, for further treatment.

HAEFA Health Clinic for Host Community

In March, the HAEFA Health Clinic services for the host community were provided on the 23rd of the month to more than 70 patients, at Phalong Model High School, Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh.

Donate to Support Our Cause!

𝑯𝑨𝑬𝑭𝑨’𝒔 𝑻𝒂𝒙 𝑰𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑵𝒖𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 (𝑬𝑰𝑵): 46-2997707
𝑵𝑻𝑬𝑬: Public Health Program (E70)
Text-to-Donate : 53-555 (Keyword: HAEFA)
Online Donations by PayPal, Credit or Debit card : www.haefa.org (Click the DONATE link)
You can also mail check addressed to “HAEFA” : 311 Bedford St, Lexington, MA 02420, USA

For more regular updates on the Rohingya refugees and other activities related to our organization, be sure to give us a like on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

HAEFA Newsletter Editorial Board

Nairita Ahsan Faruqui
Editor

Raihana Mehreen
Associate Editor

Dr. Kaniz Ferdouse Mou
Associate Editor

Contributors for the April Newsletter:
Sajia Haque

HAEFA NEWSLETTER – March 2023

Posted on April 23, 2023May 23, 2023 by Md. Saiful Alam

Progressing steps towards healthcare: services provided by HAEFA in Bangladesh

63,447 women (30-60 years) were screened for the detection of early-stage cervical cancer in 9 Upazilas of Kurigram from Nov. 2019 – Feb. 2023
41,239 women (30-60 years) were screened for the detection of early-stage cervical cancer in 6 Upazilas of Cox’s Bazar from July 2021 – February 2023
264,465 Rohingya refugees/FDMN in Ukhiya and Bangladeshi nationals living in the surrounding Ukhiya Upazila (sub-district) received free medical care in Cox’s Bazar from October 2017 to February 2023
45,825 Rohingya refugees/FDMN in Bhashan Char and Bangladeshi nationals living on the island have received free medical care in Bhashan Char, Noakhali, since November 2020
More than 3,860 Bangladeshi nationals in Ukhiya received free medical services from the Mobile Medical Clinics of HAEFA since 2022.
A total of 9,670 Diagnostic Lab Tests have been performed at HAEFA’s NCD-based Path Lab in camp 09 since January 2022.
More than 6,000 Healthcare providers were trained under the TOT program for Mental Health Support and Resilience Training in collaboration with Project HOPE
More than 3,000 physicians received the Advanced COVID-19 Clinical Management Certification online at the DGHS, MoHFW website. This course collaborates with DGHS, Brown University CHRHS, Project HOPE, HAEFA, USAID, and SCiB.
More than 40 students from classes six to twelve at (Bhawal Mirzapur Hazi Jamir Uddin School And College) received annual merit scholarships from 2019 till to date. This is a collaboration between HAEFA and M A Malek Education Scholarship Foundation.
COVID-19 Relief Effort for Underprivileged people : HAEFA Provided a two-week supply of food packages for more than 1,500 families (5 members/family) in 5 districts of Bangladesh in 2021-2022.

Opening Ceremony of the Cervical Cancer Screening Training and Research Center at DMCH

The opening ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, including the Director General of Health Services (DGHS), Professor Dr. Abul Basar Mohammad Khurshid Alam (DG), and Additional Director General (Administration), Professor Dr. Ahmedul Kabir (ADG), who joined in the ribbon cutting ceremony to officially launch the center. The event was also attended by Dr. Nazmul Haque, Director of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), Professor Dr. Shafiqul Alam Chowdhury, Principle of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), Head of Department of Gynae & Obs. Gynae Oncology, Professor Dr. Nazma Haque, and Professor Dr. Fatema Rahman, along with other professors and departmental students. Engr. ATM Zafrul Hassan, Country Director & CEO of Health and Education for All (HAEFA), Dr. Sharmin Sultana Urmi, National Clinical Coordinator of Health and Education for All (HAEFA), Md Shamsuzzaman, Program Analyst, Sexual Reproductive Health of United Nations Populations Fund (UNFPA), and Dr Fatema Shahjahan, Project Coordinator of United Nations Populations Fund (UNFPA) were also present at the event, highlighting the importance of this new facility.

The center has also received support from Brown University Global Health Initiative, Health and Education for All (HAEFA), and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)’s technical facilitators, who are providing their expertise to ensure the success of the center. In addition, these organizations are also involved in capacity building and strengthening public healthcare facilities of cervical cancer in nine upazilas of Kurigram District and six upazilas of Cox’s Bazar District. The center’s primary focus is on capacity building and training of service providers to improve the quality of cervical cancer screening and treatment in Bangladesh. By providing a centralized location for training, the center will be able to offer accessible and effective services to those in need.

Member Spotlight: Meet Ms. Asia Akter Shima, Pharmacist at the Bhashan Char area, Cox’s Bazar, HAEFA Bangladesh!

Since August 2015, Asia Akter Shima has been an integral part of the HAEFA team. She is a Diploma Pharmacist (B-Grade) under the Bangladesh Pharmacy Council, and started her career by working as a pharmacist at HAEFA’s Dhaka-based healthcare project for readymade garment (RMG) factory workers; she later moved on to the Bhashanchar health post in November 2020. Born in Dubail, Delduar, Tangail, Asia had always observed the disparities in healthcare for people belonging to different socioeconomic classes. She realized that despite its importance, healthcare is almost inaccessible or even completely out of reach for many in Bangladesh. Ms. Shima is responsible for dispensing medicine to the FDMN patients based on the doctors’ prescriptions, and she also regularly counsels the patients on the proper dosage and necessary information about their medicines. Besides these, Asia works closely with local authorities, CiC staff members, and staffers of other NGOs to ensure that the FDMN refugees receive the best possible healthcare in Bangladesh. Although tending to patients for hours can be physically and mentally draining at times, Asia deeply cherishes her time at the health post. In the future, Asia hopes, HAEFA will be able to expand its operations significantly. She believes there are many underserved communities throughout Bangladesh whose lives could be changed for the better with HAEFA’s care.

Member Spotlight: Meet Mr. Md. Sohel Rana, Pharmacist of the Ukhiya area, Cox’s Bazar, at HAEFA Bangladesh!

Md. Sohel Rana is a Diploma Pharmacist (B-Grade) under the Bangladesh Pharmacy Council, and has been working at HAEFA since August 2016 as a pharmacist. He had initially joined the healthcare project in Dhaka, which caters to ready-made garment (RMG) factory workers. The influx of Rohingya refugees began in the south in the year after, and in October 2017, he moved to the health post at Cox’s Bazar to serve the newly arrived FDMNs. After three years of working at Cox’s Bazar, he was transferred as a paramedic to the Bhashanchar camp health post in Noakhali, which plays a critical role in providing quality healthcare to the FDMN population in the region. This was in November 2020, and six months later, he returned to HAEFA’s Cox’s Bazar health post. As a pharmacist, Rana’s responsibilities are many: he is responsible for dispensing medicine to the FDMN patients based on the doctors’ prescriptions, and he also regularly counsels the patients on the proper dosage and necessary information about their medicines. Rana says he deeply appreciates the community here, as everyone is tied together by a common love for helping those in need and belief that every human being is entitled to quality healthcare. He is also especially proud of his work at HAEFA, even though the work of dealing with patients can become overwhelming at times, because his interest in medicine had come from the very understanding that the field offers a lot of opportunities to care for those around him.

Newly established health facility corners at Camp 1w

FDMN Cox’s Bazar Rohingya Camp 1w successfully completes the construction of health facility corners including additional corners for family planning, nutrition, breast-feeding and child-playing.

Healthcare for the Rohingya FDMNs/Refugees

HAEFA healthcare workers have provided free medical care and medicine to the Rohingya FDMNs since its establishment in October 2017. In February 2023, more than 7,000 individuals received free medical care and diagnostic services from HAEFA.

Kutupalong (Camp 1W):

More than 2,690 patients visited Camp 1W in Kutupalong and received healthcare services.
154 laboratory tests were conducted at HAEFA’s semi-automated NCD Pathological Laboratory

Balukhali (Camp 09):

More than 1,740 patients visited Camp 09 in Balukhali and received healthcare services.
268 laboratory tests were conducted at HAEFA’s semi-automated NCD Pathological Laboratory

FDMN Rohingya Camp at Bhashan Char:

More than 1,990 patients visited the HAEFA Medical Check-Up and Treatment for FDMN Rohingya Camp at Bhashan Char and received healthcare services

HAEFA Cervical Cancer Screening and Treatment

In Kurigram District, HAEFA provided over 1580 women with cervical cancer screenings conducted in Upazila Health Complexes (UHCs). 22 patients were found VIA positive through the initial screening test and referred for further investigation and treatment.

In February 2023, more than 1600 women were screened in 06 VIA centers (Sadar Hospital, MCWC, Ramu UHC, Moheshkhali UHC, Chakaria UHC, Pekua UHC). Twenty-two cases were found positive through the initial VIA screening test and referred for further investigation. The team followed up with them and organized Colposcopy in Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital and Chakaria UHC. Nine Colposcopies were performed at Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital and Chakaria UHC. The Cox’s Bazar Project team also followed up with seven previously identified cancer patients and referred them to Chattogram Medical College and the National Institute of Cancer Research & Hospital (NICRH), Mohakhali, Dhaka, for further treatment.

HAEFA Health Clinic for Host Community

In February, the HAEFA Health Clinic services for the host community were provided on the 23rd and 26th of the month to more than 170 patients, at two different locations, including the Shonarpara High School and AKNC High School, Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, respectively.

HAEFA believes this new chapter of providing healthcare services to the surrounding host community will improve the quality of life and bring bright smiles and hope to the faces of disadvantaged and vulnerable people.

Donate to Support Our Cause!

HAEFA is in need of donations to support the Rohingya FDMN (Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals) healthcare and COVID-19 relief efforts. Any support, whether donations, outreach, aid in collaboration from personal and professional involvement, or any other method of support to HAEFA and its underprivileged, underserved, and displaced beneficiaries, would be greatly appreciated! All donations to HAEFA are tax-deductible as allowed by the laws of the United States.

HAEFA’s Tax Identification Number (EIN): 46-2997707
NTEE: Public Health Program (E70)
Text-to-Donate: 53-555 (Keyword: HAEFA)

For more regular updates on the Rohingya refugees and other activities related to our organization, be sure to give us a like on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

HAEFA Newsletter Editorial Board

Nairita Ahsan Faruqui
Editor

Raihana Mehreen
Associate Editor

Dr. Kaniz Ferdouse Mou
Associate Editor

Contributors for the February Newsletter:
Afifa Fabiha and Sajia Haque

HAEFA NEWSLETTER – February 2023

Posted on April 15, 2023May 23, 2023 by Md. Saiful Alam

At a glimpse: Healthcare services provided by HAEFA in Bangladesh

61,858 women (30-60 years) were screened for the detection of early-stage cervical cancer in 9 Upazilas of Kurigram from Nov. 2019 – Jan. 2023
39,631 women (30-60 years) were screened for the detection of early-stage cervical cancer in 6 Upazilas of Cox’s Bazar from July 2021 – January 2023
259,423 Rohingya refugees/FDMN in Ukhiya and Bangladeshi nationals living in the surrounding Ukhiya Upazila (sub-district) received free medical care in Cox’s Bazar from October 2017 to January 2023
43,830 Rohingya refugees/FDMN in Bhashan Char and Bangladeshi nationals living on the island have received free medical care in Bhashan Char, Noakhali, since November 2020
More than 3,800 Bangladeshi nationals in Ukhiya received free medical services from the Mobile Medical Clinics of HAEFA since 2022.
A total of 9,381 Diagnostic Lab Tests have been performed at HAEFA’s NCD-based Path Lab in camp 09 since January 2022.
More than 6,000 Healthcare providers were trained under the TOT program for Mental Health Support and Resilience Training in collaboration with Project HOPE
More than 3,000 physicians received the Advanced COVID-19 Clinical Management Certification online at the DGHS, MoHFW website. This course collaborates with DGHS, Brown University CHRHS, Project HOPE, HAEFA, USAID, and SCiB.
More than 40 students from classes six to twelve at (Bhawal Mirzapur Hazi Jamir Uddin School And College) received annual merit scholarships from 2019 till to date. This is a collaboration between HAEFA and M A Malek Education Scholarship Foundation.
COVID-19 Relief Effort for Underprivileged people:
HAEFA Provided a two-week supply of food packages for more than 1,500 families (5 members/family) in 5 districts of Bangladesh in 2021-2022.

Member Spotlight: Meet Mr. Shakawat Hossain, National Operations Manager at HAEFA!

Mr. Shakawat Hossain joined HAEFA as an Assistant Operations Manager in July 2018 and became the National Operations Manager in March 2022. He supervises and manages operations of the “Cervical Cancer Screening, Detection, Treatment, and Elimination” program in the public health care facilities of nine sub-districts in Kurigram district and six sub-districts in Cox’s Bazar to maintaining a partnership with government counterparts for effective implementation of the health programs. He also manages HAEFA’s internal affairs, including ensuring internal and external audits take place smoothly and fairly and drafting essential documents. Previously Mr. Hossain also used to assist the establishment of a semi-automated NCD-focused Pathological Diagnostic Laboratory for FDMN refugees and the host community in HAEFA’s Health Post at Balukhali Camp 09, Cox’s Bazar, as Assistant Operations Manager.

Mr. Hossain joined the a2i program of Bangladesh Government’s ICT Division as a Strategic Planning and Marketing Intern in January 2020, where he used to merge 4,551 Union Digital Centers across Bangladesh to bolster connection, integration, and accelerated product reach through Bangladesh’s national postal service. He completed his Bachelor’s in Business Administration at East-West University, Bangladesh in 2020. Mr. Hossain believes in HAEFA’s goal to launch its projects in every district across the country to bring all the underserved people in Bangladesh under one quality healthcare system. He looks forward to being part of HAEFA’s journey in every way and staying with the team.

Member Spotlight: Meet Ms. Sajia Haque Bristy, the Intern Coordinator at HAEFA Bangladesh!

Ms. Sajia Haque Bristy was born and brought up in Dhaka, where she completed her elementary and high school education. She is a fifth-year medical student at the Holy Family Red Crescent Medical College and Hospital. Ms. Sajia traces her interest in medicine back to the visits to her ancestral home in the village and the people’s sufferings due to the lack of proper treatment in the rural setting. Attracted to HAEFA’s dedication to providing for the underserved communities of Bangladesh, Ms. Sajia joined HAEFA on July 23, 2021. She manages the interns as the coordinator at HAEFA’s Dhaka Office and as a bridge between HAEFA USA and HAEFA Bangladesh. Ms. Sajia keeps the international Newsletter, Fundraising, and Annual Report teams updated on all the ongoing projects in Bangladesh.

Although Ms.Sajia is working remotely now, she enjoyed visiting the districts of Noakhali and Chandpur with several staff members of HAEFA’s Dhaka office and the founder himself, Dr. Ruhul Abid. Ms. Sajia will soon graduate from medical school to become the first MBBS doctor in her village. She looks forward to dedicating her life to working for socially and economically disadvantaged people.

Brown University Team Visits Cox’s Bazar District Hospital

On January 10th and 11th, 2023, Professors Dr. Susan Cu-Uvin and Dr. Ruhul Abid, along with Project Director, Monjur Iqbal and National Clinical Coordinator, Sharmin Sultana, visited Cox’s Bazar district hospital and Chakaria UHC. Professor Susan Cu-Uvin trained doctors, SSNs/MWs to take a biopsy and perform Colposcopy. Twenty-five women from Sadar, Moheshkhali, Chakaria, and Pekua underwent Colposcopy. Four women received thermocoagulation.

HAEFA during the Cervical Cancer Prevention Week

January is known to be the cervical cancer prevention month, and 19th to 25th of January is termed as the cervical cancer prevention week. Similar to previous years, the HAEFA CC CXB team organized numerous awareness activities at the targeted VIA centers, including the Cox’s Bazar district sadar hospital. During the cervical cancer prevention week, our community facilitators counseled as many women as possible, to understand how to reduce their disease risk and also educated others for awareness.

HAEFA Team Congratulates ProfessorDr. Ruhul Abid on his Nobel Peace Prize Nomination

The HAEFA team conveys heartfelt greetings and congratulates our President, Professor Dr. Ruhul Abid for his nomination of the Nobel Peace Prize 2020.

Additional Activities of HAEFA

Capacity building training on Early Detection and Prevention of Disability, organized by Handicap International

FDMN Cox’s Bazar Rohingya Camp 1w executing the construction of health facility corners.

Accessible Healthcare for the Rohingya FDMNs/Refugees

HAEFA healthcare workers have provided free medical care and medicine to the Rohingya FDMNs since its establishment in October 2017. In January 2023, more than 5,110 individuals received free medical care and diagnostic services from HAEFA.

Kutupalong (Camp 1W):

More than 2,960 patients visited Camp 1W in Kutupalong and received healthcare services.
141 laboratory tests were conducted at HAEFA’s semi-automated NCD Pathological Laboratory

Balukhali (Camp 09):

More than 2,140 patients visited Camp 09 in Balukhali and received healthcare services.
165 laboratory tests were conducted at HAEFA’s semi-automated NCD Pathological Laboratory

FDMN Rohingya Camp at Bhashan Char:

More than 1,960 patients visited the HAEFA Medical Check-Up and Treatment for FDMN Rohingya Camp at Bhashan Char and received healthcare services.

HAEFA Cervical Cancer Screening and Treatment

In Kurigram District, HAEFA provided over 1520 women with cervical cancer screenings conducted in Upazila Health Complexes (UHCs). 22 patients were found VIA positive through the initial screening test and referred for further investigation and treatment.
In January 2023, more than 1660 women were screened in 06 VIA centers (Sadar Hospital, MCWC, Ramu UHC, Moheshkhali UHC, Chakaria UHC, Pekua UHC). Seventeen cases were found positive through the initial VIA screening test and referred for further investigation. The team followed up with them and organized Colposcopy in Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital and Chakaria UHC. Thirty-two Colposcopies were performed at Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital and Chakaria UHC. The Cox’s Bazar Project team also followed up with seven previously identified cancer patients and referred them to Chattogram Medical College and the National Institute of Cancer Research & Hospital (NICRH), Mohakhali, Dhaka, for further treatment.

HAEFA Health Clinic for Host Community

In January, the HAEFA Health Clinic services for the host community were provided on the 2nd and 19th of the month to more than 110 patients, at two different locations, including the Shonarpara Model High School and Phalong High School, Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, respectively.

HAEFA believes this new chapter of providing healthcare services to the surrounding host community will improve the quality of life and bring bright smiles and hope to the faces of disadvantaged and vulnerable people.

Donate to Support Our Cause!

HAEFA’s Tax Identification Number (EIN): 46-2997707
NTEE: Public Health Program (E70)
Text-to-Donate: 53-555 (Keyword: HAEFA)

For more regular updates on the Rohingya refugees and other activities related to our organization, be sure to give us a like on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

HAEFA Newsletter Editorial Board

Nairita Ahsan Faruqui
Editor

Raihana Mehreen
Associate Editor

Dr. Kaniz Ferdouse Mou
Associate Editor

Contributors for the February Newsletter:
Afifa Fabiha and Sajia Haque

Training on Screening, Treatment & Management for Prevention of Cervical Cancer

Posted on April 12, 2023April 12, 2023 by Md. Saiful Alam

Training on Screening, Treatment & Management for Prevention of Cervical Cancer

Date: 11^th February to 23^rd February 2023

Venue: Dhaka Medical College Hospital

A Non-residential Training on Screening, Treatment & Management for Prevention of Cervical Cancer was held on 11^th February to 23^rd February 2023 at Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), organized by DMCH and supported by HAEFA.

The session was held with the resource persons from DMCH, Professor Dr. Nazma Hoque, Professor and Departmental Head of Obstetrics and Gynae, DMCH, along with Professor Dr. Fatema Rahman, Professor Dr. Khodeza Begum, Assistant Professor Dr. Lutfa Begum Lipi, Associate Professor Dr. S M Shahida, Junior Consultant Dr. Samina Sultana, RS DMCH Dr. Mahbubur Rahman Rajib, 3 Junior Consultant, and 4 SSN were present and coordinated by Dr. Sharmin Sultana Urmi, National Clinical Coordinator, HAEFA Bangladesh.

The training was framed with Consultant from DH, Ulipur, Bhaurungamari UHC of KURIGRAM district and SRHR Officer of Gazipur & Netrokona, 2 Junior Consultant from DMCH, and National Coordinator GBV from DGHS were participated in the training program.

The first 6 days of the training were about Basic VIA Training which included Anatomy, Physiology of Female Reproductive Organ, Etiology, and Pathogenesis of Cervical Cancer with Single Visit “See and Treat” approach of cervical precancers lesions. Also, enlightening the trainees about the Principles of Cervical Cancer Screening- Target age, Frequency of Screening, and practicing VIA & CBE Examination at the outdoor of DMCH.

The next 6 days of Training sessions included Basic Colposcopy Training with Advance Management. Principles of Colposcopy with indication, normal finding and Colposcopy diagnosis, Thermocoagulation through Mobile ODT, and also Conventional Methods were included in this part.

After every day’s Theoretical and Practical session’s Participants had a session on Data entry on ‘DHIS2 –National Cervical and Breast Cancer Surveillance System’ for proper Tracking and referral system, this session was supervised by Dr. Mohammad Adnan, From MIS, DGHS.

From HAEFA’s part, I thanked the Director of DMCH and Respected consultants of DMCH for giving us this opportunity and gave a short brief about HAEFA’S work extension and project details with our role in screening, treatment and referral procedure with tertiary management of the cancer patients.

The Training ended by a Certificate Giving Ceremony where the Director of DMCH, Brigadier General Md Nazmul Haque, and All the consultants of the Obstetrics and Gynae department of DMCH were present.

On the closing speech Director of DMCH thanked the participants and both UNFPA & HAEFA for playing a significant role in Preventing Cervical Cancer in Our Country.

Class taken by Dept head Prof. Dr Nazma Haque

Class Taken by Dr Lutfa Begum Lipi of Dept.of Gynae & Obs.

Class taken by Dr SM Shahida, Associate Prof DMCH, Gynae oncology

Session taken By Dr Sharmin Sultana Urmi, National Clinical Coordinator, HAEFA

Practical Session at Colposcopy Room DMCH

In the Certificate Giving Ceremony with Prof Dr Nazma Haque.

HAEFA NEWSLETTER – January 2023

Posted on April 1, 2023May 22, 2023 by Md. Saiful Alam

The HAEFA Team wishes you a very Happy New Year 2023

HAEFA’s Healthcare Services in Bangladesh: a year end summary

60,337 women (30-60 years) were screened for the detection of early-stage cervical cancer in 6 Upazilas of Kurigram from Nov. 2019 – Dec. 2022
38,016 women (30-60 years) were screened for the detection of early-stage cervical cancer in 6 Upazilas of Cox’s Bazar from July 2021 – December 2022
254,310 Rohingya refugees/FDMN in Ukhiya and Bangladeshi nationals living in the surrounding Ukhiya Upazila (sub-district) received free medical care in Cox’s Bazar from October 2017 to December 2022
39,968 Rohingya refugees/FDMN in Bhashan Char and Bangladeshi nationals living on the island have received free medical care in Bhashan Char, Noakhali, since November 2020
More than 3290 Bangladeshi nationals in Ukhiya received free medical services from the Mobile Medical Clinics of HAEFA in 2022.
A total of 9075 Diagnostic Lab Tests have been performed at HAEFA’s NCD-based Path Lab in camp 09 since January 2022.
More than 6,000 Healthcare providers were trained under the TOT program for Mental Health Support and Resilience Training in collaboration with Project HOPE
More than 3,000 physicians received the Advanced COVID-19 Clinical Management Certification online at the DGHS, MoHFW website. This course collaborates with DGHS, Brown University CHRHS, Project HOPE, HAEFA, USAID, and SCiB.
More than 40 students from classes six to twelve at (Bhawal Mirzapur Hazi Jamir Uddin School And College) received annual merit scholarships from 2019 till to date. This is a collaboration between HAEFA and M A Malek Education Scholarship Foundation.
COVID-19 Relief Effort for Underprivileged people : HAEFA Provided a two-week supply of food packages for more than 1,500 families (5 members/family) in 5 districts of Bangladesh in 2021-2022.

Activities for Development by HAEFA Members

A monthly coordination meeting with CHCP was held in Nageshwari UHC on December 8th to discuss the ongoing Cervical Cancer Screening and Treatment approach

HAEFA-UNFPA Meeting held on December 18th to discuss the Cervical Cancer Screening and Treatment.

HAEFA members attend the 1st meeting of the National Cervical Cancer Strategy Revision process at DGHS, Mohakhali on 29th December 2022. The meeting titled “Revision & Update National Strategy of Cervical Cancer Prevention and Control” was attended by ADG, Line Director MNCH (on charge), Program Manager Maternal & Child Health, Consultant DMCH, all consultants from BSMMU related to Cervical Cancer, OGSB consultant, WHO, HIPS Bangladesh’s specialist, DPM MNCH and Program Analyst UNFPA, Maternal health, Program Analyst Nutrition, Program Analyst FP.

Thermocoagulator Training held at DMCH on 27th December 2022.

Accessible Healthcare for the Rohingya FDMNs/Refugees

HAEFA healthcare workers have provided free medical care and medicine to the Rohingya FDMNs since its establishment in October 2017. In December 2022, more than 5,860 individuals received free medical care and diagnostic services from HAEFA.

Kutupalong (Camp 1W):

More than 3,400 patients visited Camp 1W in Kutupalong and received healthcare services.
128 laboratory tests were conducted at HAEFA’s semi-automated NCD Pathological Laboratory

Balukhali (Camp 09):

More than 1,980 patients visited Camp 09 in Balukhali and received healthcare services.
191 laboratory tests were conducted at HAEFA’s semi-automated NCD Pathological Laboratory

FDMN Rohingya Camp at Bhashan Char:

More than 1,740 patients visited the HAEFA Medical Check-Up and Treatment for FDMN Rohingya Camp at Bhashan Char and received healthcare services.

HAEFA Cervical Cancer Screening and Treatment

Cervical cancer kills 6,582 women annually in Bangladesh, where the diagnosis rate is 2-3 times higher than in the U.S. and hosts a mortality rate five times higher. HAEFA has implemented a “See-and-Treat” Cervical Cancer Screening and Treatment Program to reduce these numbers, using a one-stop mobile (digital) colposcopy and thermocoagulation.

In Kurigram District, HAEFA provided over 1900 women with cervical cancer screenings conducted in Upazila Health Complexes (UHCs). 28 patients were found VIA positive through the initial screening test and referred for further investigation and treatment. One cervical cancer patient received 3 cycle brachytherapie in November, 2022.
More than 1,480 women were screened in 6 VIA Centers (Sadar Hospital, MCWC, Ramu UHC, Moheshkhali UHC, Chakaria UHC, Pekua UHC) and 6 VIA camps in the respective Upazilas of Cox’s Bazar, including one hard-to-reach Upazila, Moheshkhali, in November. 28 patients were found VIA positive, through the initial VIA screening test and referred for further investigation. 9 colposcopies were performed at Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital.
Cases that tested positive through the initial VIA screening were referred for further investigation. Our team followed up with the patients and organized a second VIA screening test and colposcopy in Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital, where both colposcopy and thermocoagulation were performed. The Cox’s Bazar Project team followed up with previously identified cancer patients and referred them to Chattogram Medical College and the National Institute of Cancer Research & Hospital (NICRH), Mohakhali, Dhaka for further treatment.

HAEFA Health Clinic for Host Community

Free services provided to patients include screening and treatment for Non-communicable chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes, asthma, malnutrition), communicable diseases, and Family Planning services. However, due to recently installed fencing setups, the surrounding communities have limited access to health clinics to receive free medical screenings, treatment, and follow-ups. To help these host community patients access care, HAEFA has started a new weekly Mobile Medical Clinic for the host community.

In December, the HAEFA Health Clinic service for the host community was provided on the 15th of the month to more than 60 patients, at AKNC High School, Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, respectively.

Donate to Support Our Cause!

HAEFA’s Tax Identification Number (EIN): 46-2997707
NTEE: Public Health Program (E70)
Text-to-Donate: 53-555 (Keyword: HAEFA)

For more regular updates on the Rohingya refugees and other activities related to our organization, be sure to give us a like on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

HAEFA Newsletter Editorial Board

Nairita Ahsan Faruqui
Editor

Raihana Mehreen
Associate Editor

Dr. Kaniz Ferdouse Mou
Associate Editor

Cervical Cancer Screening Training and Research Center opens at DMCH

Posted on February 26, 2023February 26, 2023 by Md. Saiful Alam

Cervical cancer is one of the most pressing health issues in Bangladesh, with an alarming 12,000 new cases and 6,000 deaths reported every year. In fact, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in Bangladesh, representing approximately 15% of all female cancer cases, as reported by the World Health Organization.

This dire situation has led to the creation of the Cervical Cancer Screening Training and Research Center of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), which officially opened its doors to the healthcare workers on February 20th, 2023. The center aims to become the regional training hub for cervical cancer in Bangladesh, providing training to service providers from various districts and upazillas of the country.

The opening ceremony was a momentous occasion, graced by esteemed guests, including the Director General of Health Services (DGHS), Professor Dr. Abul Basar Mohammad Khurshid Alam (DG), and Additional Director General (Administration), Professor Dr. Ahmedul Kabir (ADG), who joined in the ribbon cutting ceremony to officially launch the center. The event was also attended by Dr. Nazmul Haque, Director of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), Professor Dr. Shafiqul Alam Chowdhury, Principle of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), Head of Department of Gynae & Obs. Gynae Oncology, Professor Dr. Nazma Haque, and Professor Dr. Fatema Rahman, along with other professors and departmental students.

Additionally, Engr. ATM Zafrul Hassan, Country Director & CEO of Health and Education for All (HAEFA), Dr. Sharmin Sultana Urmi, National Clinical Coordinator of Health and Education for All (HAEFA), Md Shamsuzzaman, Program Analyst, Sexual Reproductive Health of United Nations Populations Fund (UNFPA), and Dr Fatema Shahjahan, Project Coordinator of United Nations Populations Fund (UNFPA) were also present at the event, highlighting the importance of this new facility.

The center’s primary focus is on capacity building and training of service providers to improve the quality of cervical cancer screening and treatment in Bangladesh. By providing a centralized location for training, the center will be able to offer accessible and effective services to those in need.

With the establishment of this new facility, the DMCH has set a new standard in the fight against cervical cancer.

HAEFA NEWSLETTER – December 2022

Posted on January 30, 2023May 22, 2023 by Md. Saiful Alam

HAEFA’s Healthcare Services in Bangladesh: a year end summary

59,004 women (30-60 years) were screened for the detection of early-stage cervical cancer in 9 Upazilas of Kurigram from Nov. 2019 – Nov. 2022
36,176 women (30-60 years) were screened for the detection of early-stage cervical cancer in 6 Upazilas of Cox’s Bazar from July 2021 – November 2022
248,444 Rohingya refugees/FDMN in Ukhiya and Bangladeshi nationals living in the surrounding Ukhiya Upazila (sub-district) received free medical care in Cox’s Bazar from October 2017 to November 2022
39,968 Rohingya refugees/FDMN in Bhashan Char and Bangladeshi nationals living on the island have received free medical care in Bhashan Char, Noakhali, since November 2020
More than 2950 Bangladeshi nationals in Ukhiya received free medical services from the Mobile Medical Clinics of HAEFA in 2022.
A total of 8786 Diagnostic Lab Tests have been performed at HAEFA’s NCD-based Path Lab in camp 09 since January 2022.
More than 6,000 Healthcare providers were trained under the TOT program for Mental Health Support and Resilience Training in collaboration with Project HOPE
More than 3,000 physicians received the Advanced COVID-19 Clinical Management Certification online at the DGHS, MoHFW website. This course collaborates with DGHS, Brown University CHRHS, Project HOPE, HAEFA, USAID, and SCiB.
More than 40 students from classes six to twelve at (Bhawal Mirzapur Hazi Jamir Uddin School And College) received annual merit scholarships from 2019 till to date. This is a collaboration between HAEFA and M A Malek Education Scholarship Foundation.
COVID-19 Relief Effort for Underprivileged people :
HAEFA Provided a two-week supply of food packages for more than 1,500 families (5 members/family) in 5 districts of Bangladesh in 2021-2022.

Refresher on Mobile Colposcopy and Hand-held Thermocoagulation and Colposcopy Camp

A refresher workshop on Mobile Colposcopy and hand-held thermocoagulation was held on 14th-15th November 2022 at the Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH). Organized by the support of UNFPA to the 4th HPNSP through DGHS, the session was held for single visit screening and treatment, to prevent cervical cancer. Brown University trainers Prof. Dr. Susan Cu-Uvin and Prof. Dr. Ruhul Abid had personally visited and joined the session. HAEFA’s expert trainers and physicians moderated the training session. Professor Dr. Najma Hoque, Professor and Head of Department, Obstetrics and Gynae, Dhaka Medical College and Hospital along with Professor. Dr. Fatema Rahman, Professor. Dr. Khodeja Begum, Assistant Professor Dr. Lutfa Begum Lipi, Associate Professor Dr. S M Shahida, Dr. Samina Sultana, Consultant, Dr. Mahbubur Rahman Rajib, R/S DMCH, and 4 Junior Consultants and 4 SSNs were present at the session.

After two days of successful training sessions at the DMCH National Training (TOT) Center for Cervical Cancer, Prof. Dr. Susan Cu-Uvin, Director, Brown Global Health, and Prof. Dr. Ruhul Abid, President, HAEFA, along with the HAEFA medical team visited Kurigram. A second refresher training of physicians, SSN and midwives for cervical cancer one-stop see-and-treat digital screening and treatment program was held in Kurigram on 16th November, 2022; organized by the Civil Surgeon Office Kurigram and HAEFA, with the support of UNFPA and Brown University, and implemented by the DGHS.

HAEFA has been developing the One-stop See-and-Treat CC screening and treatment program here in 9 Upazilas (sub-districts) in collaboration with the DGHS since 2019. More than 56,000 women (30-60 years) received this unique digital healthcare service. HAEFA Bangladesh is the pioneer of this program in Bangladesh, for which it has been the recipient of the Stars in Global Health Award from the Grand Challenges Canada in 2018. Thirty-one women with ore-cancerous lesions (early signs) of cervical cancer from 3 different Upazilas received treatment by the medical team of HAEFA under the supervision of Professor Dr. Susan Cu-Uvin of Brown University Global Health Initiative. Patients were elated after receiving their life-saving and humane treatment, conveying gratitude through hugs to the HAEFA and Brown medical team members.

Prof. Dr. Ruhul Abid delivers speech on Career Planning

The President of HAEFA, Prof. Dr. Ruhul Abid delivered a lecture on Career Planning: Road to USA on 21st November 2022 at Dhaka Medical College.

HAEFA supported Cox’s Bazar District Hospital wins award for VIA Screening, Follow-up, Treatment and Support

HAEFA, with the support of UNFPA, with the funding from The World Bank Health and Gender Support Project and under the leadership of DGHS, implemented Cervical Cancer Screening projects in seven VIA centers in Cox’s Bazar. For VIA Screening, Follow-up, Treatment and Support, the Cox’s Bazar District Hospital has been selected as the Best VIA center based on the total number of VIA, the total number of data entries, and positive patient follow-up. VIA in-charge, Masuda Akter, has been selected as one of the best service providers.

The ceremony was held on November 2, 2022, at BSMMU in Dhaka, and the honorable Health and Family Welfare Minister, Zahid Malik, handed over the certificate in the presence of the Civil Surgeon, Cox’s Bazar, and the superintendent of Cox’s Bazar District Hospital.

Accessible Healthcare for the Rohingya FDMNs/Refugees

HAEFA healthcare workers have provided free medical care and medicine to the Rohingya FDMNs since its establishment in October 2017. In November 2022, more than 5,440 individuals received free medical care and diagnostic services from HAEFA.

Kutupalong (Camp 1W):

More than 3,100 patients visited Camp 1W in Kutupalong and received healthcare services.
114 laboratory tests were conducted at HAEFA’s semi-automated NCD Pathological Laboratory

Balukhali (Camp 09):

More than 2,330 patients visited Camp 09 in Balukhali and received healthcare services.
139 laboratory tests were conducted at HAEFA’s semi-automated NCD Pathological Laboratory

FDMN Rohingya Camp at Bhashan Char:

More than 1,740 patients visited the HAEFA Medical Check-Up and Treatment for FDMN Rohingya Camp at Bhashan Char and received healthcare services.

HAEFA Cervical Cancer Screening and Treatment

Cervical cancer kills 6,582 women annually in Bangladesh, where the diagnosis rate is 2-3 times higher than in the U.S. and hosts a mortality rate five times higher. HAEFA has implemented a “See-and-Treat” Cervical Cancer Screening and Treatment Program to reduce these numbers, using a one-stop mobile (digital) colposcopy and thermocoagulation.
- In Kurigram District, HAEFA provided over 1900 women with cervical cancer screenings conducted in Upazila Health Complexes (UHCs). 28 patients were found VIA positive through the initial screening test and referred for further investigation and treatment. One cervical cancer patient received 3 cycle brachytherapie in November, 2022.
- More than 1,480 women were screened in 6 VIA Centers (Sadar Hospital, MCWC, Ramu UHC, Moheshkhali UHC, Chakaria UHC, Pekua UHC) and 6 VIA camps in the respective Upazilas of Cox’s Bazar, including one hard-to-reach Upazila, Moheshkhali, in November. 28 patients were found VIA positive, through the initial VIA screening test and referred for further investigation. 9 colposcopies were performed at Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital.
- Cases that tested positive through the initial VIA screening were referred for further investigation. Our team followed up with the patients and organized a second VIA screening test and colposcopy in Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital, where both colposcopy and thermocoagulation were performed. The Cox’s Bazar Project team followed up with previously identified cancer patients and referred them to Chattogram Medical College and the National Institute of Cancer Research & Hospital (NICRH), Mohakhali, Dhaka for further treatment.

HAEFA Health Clinic for Host Community

From the beginning of the Rohingya FDMN (refugee) crisis, HAEFA has provided primary medical treatment and medical services for both non-communicable diseases (NCD) and communicable diseases (CD) to the FDMN population as well as to the surrounding host community. Underserved patients from beyond the camp have also been coming to HAEFA Health Clinics to receive treatment.

Free services provided to patients include screening and treatment for Non-communicable chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes, asthma, malnutrition), communicable diseases, and Family Planning services. However, due to recently installed fencing setups, the surrounding communities have limited access to health clinics to receive free medical screenings, treatment, and follow-ups. To help these host community patients access care, HAEFA has started a new weekly Mobile Medical Clinic for the host community.

In November, the HAEFA Health Clinic services for the host community were provided on the 10th and 17th of the month to more than 130 patients, at two different locations, including the Shonarpara Model High School and AKNC High School, Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, respectively.

Donate to Support Our Cause!

HAEFA’s Tax Identification Number (EIN): 46-2997707
NTEE: Public Health Program (E70)
Text-to-Donate: 53-555 (Keyword: HAEFA)

For more regular updates on the Rohingya refugees and other activities related to our organization, be sure to give us a like on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.