Obio Area Gets Awareness On Dangers Of Alcohol

Women and other young mothers in Obio area of Obio/Akpor Local Government of Rivers State have been sensitised on the dangers of alcohol during pregnancy and even during breast- feeding.
The awareness campaign was conducted by the International Breweries Plc as part of its corporate social responsibility.
The health outreach is aimed at educating pregnant women, lactating mothers, and women of reproductive age on the potential risks linked to alcohol consumption during critical phases of motherhood, while at the same time advocating responsible beverage choices and social consciousness.
The campaign was held in partnership with Obio Cottage Hospital to safeguard the well-being of both mothers and their infants.
Ms. Ezete Deborah Obianuju, representing International Breweries Plc, said the company was committed to mitigating the harmful effects of alcohol consumption.
Obianuju advanced reasons for expectant mothers to avoid alcohol which she said was due to its potential impact on their babies’ health.
Also, the company’s partner for implementing the Responsible Beverage Service, led by Stanley Nyeche, made brief presentations about the goals, objectives, and activities of the company’s Responsible Beverage Service, which is currently being implemented in Port Harcourt.
The outreach programme attracted 270 participants, including 24 healthcare professionals from Obio Cottage Hospital. The programme featured presentations from medical experts, addressing the various negative consequences of alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
Dr. Cecilla Nwibubasa, a medical practitioner, delivered a presentation about the risks of physical deformities, low birth weight, poor cognitive development, pre-term delivery, and stillbirths associated with alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
Participants engaged in discussions and watched informative videos, illustrating the effects of alcohol on pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The Chief Matron of Obio Cottage Hospital, Matron Uwakwe Ulunwa, further elaborated on the videos’ content, urging attendees to adhere to the guidelines shared.
The event extended its reach to lactating mothers, as Dr. Cecilia Nwibubasa advised them to abstain from alcohol during breastfeeding and opt for milk consumption to support the healthy development of their infants.
She emphasised the effect on babies, growth as a result of alcohol’s influence during this critical phase of growth.
The event also focused on the importance of responsible beverage consumption during the critical phases of pregnancy and breastfeeding, as the participants appreciated International Breweries Plc for sponsoring the event.

By: Ike Wigodo