End Post-Partum Haemorrhage Run

Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) refers to excessive bleeding following childbirth, occurring after either normal delivery or Caesarean section. It is classified as blood loss of more than 500mls following normal delivery or more than 1,000mls after Caesarean section. During pregnancy, a woman’s blood volume increases by 40–60% to cushion against blood loss during delivery. However, anaemia reduces this reserve, and approximately four out of every ten pregnant women in Kisumu County are anaemic.
The run was a joint initiative involving the PPH Foundation, University of Nairobi, Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS), Kenya Midwives Association and the Ministry of Health at the national level. In Kisumu County, partners included the County Department of Health, Maseno University, JOOTRH, KOGS Nyanza Branch, KMET, Lwala Community Initiative and Kenya Medical Association, Kisumu Division.
Participants included medical students from Maseno and Uzima Universities, specialist doctors, medical officers, nurses, running club members, health NGOs, Living Goods and members of the public. Maseno University students were coordinated through the Dean’s Office and MEDSAM. The event attracted participants ranging from children under 10 years to senior citizens. Blood donation was also a major activity.

 

Themed “RUN FOR HER! And Save Her Life,” the activity aimed to raise awareness about PPH, advocate for prevention of excessive bleeding during childbirth, and highlight the importance of timely access to blood transfusion. The blood donation drive also sought to increase the pool of potential donors who can be mobilized during emergencies. Miriam, a mother of five, shared a moving experience of severe bleeding following the delivery of her fifth child at Kombewa Sub-County Hospital. She credited the health workers for the prompt interventions, including medication, fluid management, use of a special anti-shock garment and blood transfusion, and encouraged women to seek skilled care in health facilities.
Over 200 people participated in the run, while more than 40 units of blood were donated. Maseno University had the largest single group representation, comprising faculty, collaborating faculty from SUNY Upstate Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, medical students, alumni and faculty families.

The annual activity has been conducted in 30 counties across Kenya, with plans to hold it on the last Sunday of September every year. The next edition aims to mobilize one million Kenyans. Maseno University School of Medicine will also seek to broaden participation across other faculties and the wider University to enhance the success and impact of the initiative.
Speaking during the event, the Chief Guest, Dr Ganda, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health, Kisumu County, emphasized that postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) remains a major public health concern, affecting millions of women globally.
He highlighted the need to strengthen health systems and emphasized that approximately four out of every ten expectant mothers attending antenatal clinics in Kisumu County are anaemic, increasing their risk of complications during childbirth.
Dr Ganda stressed the importance of early antenatal care, routine anaemia screening and timely treatment, including iron supplementation or injectable treatment where necessary. He also emphasized the role of community health promoters in conducting household follow-ups to support adherence to iron supplementation.
He called for continued collaboration among healthcare workers, communities and other stakeholders to prevent PPH and reduce preventable maternal deaths.