Foase (Ash), Dec 22, GNA - Residents of Foase in the Atwima-Kwanwoma District of the Ashanti Region have been given free medical care during a health screening exercise organized at Foase at the weekend.

The exercise, organized by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) of the Bosomtwe and Atwima-Kwanwoma Districts in collaboration with the Atwima Kwanwoma Health Directorate formed part of activities marking the NHIS week of the District.

Mr Reuben Bezrah, a Nutritionist of the Ghana Health Service, told the Ghana News Agency that the beneficiaries were screened of ailments including malaria and cardio-vascular diseases and that about 71 percent of those screened were women.

He said those whose conditions were not serious were treated whiles those with complications were referred to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) for treatment.

After the screening, it came to light that 16 per cent of the people were over weight and were therefore advised to lead healthy lifestyles by reducing intake of oil and sugar which could result in obesity. Mr Reuben urged the people to adopt regenerative health by eating balanced and healthy diet, exercise frequently and take a lot of water. He said they should also get enough rest to prolong their lives.