KUCHING: A total of 358 athletes participating in the Seventh Special Olympics Sarawak State Games underwent health screenings today under the Healthy Athletes Programme held at the Pandelela Rinong Aquatic Centre.
The screenings aimed to identify undiagnosed health conditions among individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Women, Childhood and Community Well-being Development Minister, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, said during a press conference that the programme reflects a meaningful investment in the well-being of special needs athletes.
“Each time we organise the Special Olympics, whether at the state or divisional level, we include the Healthy Athletes Programme. This is truly a worthwhile investment,” Fatimah said.
“If no screening was done today, many of these athletes would continue living their lives without knowing they have health problems.”
Athletes found to require further treatment are issued referral letters to seek appropriate medical care, a process which Fatimah emphasised ensures timely intervention and necessary care.
More than 82 volunteers, including trained health professionals, medical students, scouts, girl guides and parents, contributed their time and expertise to the programme.
“Their volunteer spirit is truly inspiring. It shows how caring and committed our society is towards the welfare of this special community,” Fatimah said.
Among the medical experts on the ground was Consultant Paediatrician and Head of Clinical Research at Sibu Hospital, Dr Toh Teck Hock, who shared key findings from the screenings.
By midday, around 100 athletes had been assessed, with Dr Toh revealing that about 10 percent needed new prescription glasses, which would be provided free of charge for the athletes.
The screenings also identified athletes with glaucoma and cataracts, as well as hearing issues affecting either one or both ears.
Dental checks found that about one in six athletes required urgent dental treatment, such as extractions or fillings.
In addition, six athletes were discovered to have previously undiagnosed hypertension, including a 15-year-old whose blood pressure had reached 140 mmHg.
Obesity was detected in roughly 20 per cent of the athletes, with another 20 per cent classified as overweight.
“Without this programme, we would not have discovered that some seemingly healthy athletes are actually facing serious medical issues,” Dr Toh said.
