HEKIMA: Health Kiosks in Markets
Heart (cardiovascular) disease is a leading cause of death in Kenya. Rural communities and those with lower socio-economic status face difficulties in accessing health services; as a result they are less likely to go for checks-ups and remain vulnerable to the onset of cardiovascular disease.
Community markets are social establishments with untapped potential to promote public health and interventions. A central locus of life in the rural areas, they are a gathering point for people of all ages and backgrounds. Locating health kiosks in such a trusted community asset is thought to increase the likelihood of successful uptake of health promotion by vulnerable members of society.
The study explores whether kiosks in community markets, manned by community health workers (CHWs) and supervised by nurses, can support prevention of heart diseases in Kenya.
Aims
The study explores whether kiosks in community markets, manned by community health workers (CHWs) and supervised by nurses, can support prevention of heart diseases in Kenya.
Impact
The kiosks were set up and have been in operation from November 2021 to date, during which period over 2500 people have been served. The kiosks have proven popular with the community, who were keen on them continuing to operate beyond the study period. An evaluation at the end of January 2023 in combination with data collected during the other phases of the study will provide further insights on operation of the kiosks under everyday conditions.
Our Partners
Kenya Medical Research Institute
MOI University
Principal Investigator
Professor of Social Epidemiology
Investigator
Senior Research Fellow
Affiliations
Project websites
Funding
Funding Body: Medical Research Council
Amount: £398,350
Period: January 2019 - January 2021