Despite the ongoing unrest gripping Myanmar, the Adventist Church in the country remains unwavering in its commitment to fostering faith and bolstering communities. Demonstrating this steadfast resilience, the Women's Ministries Department of the Adventist Church in Myanmar (MYUM) and the Adventist Church in Yangon (YM) collaborated to organize a two-day bi-mission-wide health convention for women. The convention aimed to empower women with essential health knowledge and practical strategies to promote a healthier lifestyle within their communities.
Held on March 25-26, 2024, at the esteemed Yangon Central Church, the convention drew an impressive attendance of approximately 150 women from diverse regions across Myanmar. This significant turnout underscored the collective desire among women to prioritize their health and well-being, even amidst the challenging socio-political landscape.
The convention served as a platform for addressing a myriad of crucial topics concerning women's health. A diverse array of speakers, including esteemed professionals and leaders in their respective fields, shared insights and expertise on key issues impacting women's wellness.
Dr. Lalaine Ciron-Alfanoso, SSD Health Ministries Director, encouraged the delegates with her presentation on "emotional resilience and lifestyle medicine. Her session shed light on the importance of mental health and adopting healthy lifestyle practices to enhance overall wellbeing.
"The health message goes beyond dietary choices; it encompasses our conscientious stewardship of mental well-being," remarked Dr. Alfanoso. "Nurturing stable mental health is pivotal for making informed decisions and fostering robust social connections within our communities," she emphasized.
Pastor Ser Nay Nyunt, the Health Director of MYUM, delved into the theme of "women and health," emphasizing the significance of gender-sensitive healthcare policies and services tailored to meet women's unique needs.
Mrs. Khin San Htay's discussion on "cancer awareness and prevention" struck a chord with attendees, highlighting the importance of early detection and proactive measures in combating this widespread disease.
Research indicates that in 2018, the five most prevalent cancers in Myanmar were lung, stomach, cervix, breast, and liver cancers. Shockingly, over 51,000 deaths were attributed to cancer in the country during that period. By educating mothers and women about fostering a healthy environment for their families, this initiative aims to raise awareness and empower Adventist families to disseminate this vital knowledge within their communities.
The convention also featured insightful presentations from prominent figures such as Mrs. Sohila Shine, Director of the MYUM Women’s Ministries Department, Mrs. Saung Wai Wai, Director of the YM Women’s Ministries Department; and Mrs. Cho Cho Paul, Director of the MYUM Children’s Ministries Department. Each speaker addressed various aspects of women's issues, ranging from reproductive health to women's empowerment.
The collaborative effort between the Women's Ministries Department of MYUM and the Yangon Mission underscored the collective commitment to advancing women's health. By providing a platform for education, awareness, and dialogue, the convention aimed to equip women with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions about their health and lead fulfilling lives.
Attendees expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in such a meaningful event, praising the organizers for their dedication to promoting women's wellness and empowerment.
Health leaders in the region encouraged delegates to continue to advocate for women's health and drive positive change within their communities. With initiatives like these, Myanmar continues to take significant strides towards creating a healthier and more equitable society for all its citizens.
Teint Saung, MYUM Communication Director