The Municipal Polyclinic of Asunción, in a joint effort with the Mercado de Abasto, has announced a free digestive health screening day. The initiative aims to promote public health awareness and facilitate the early detection of digestive conditions such as gastritis. This public service event is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 7 April 2026, from 07:00 to 11:00. Health professionals will be available to conduct the screenings, which are designed to offer a timely and reliable diagnosis for potential digestive disorders.
The event brings essential medical services directly into a high-traffic community area. By hosting the screenings at a central and accessible location, organisers hope to encourage more citizens to participate and prioritise their long-term well-being. The screenings are completely free of charge and open to all eligible members of the public. The location for the screenings will be the Medical Dispensary situated in Block ‘B’ of the Mercado de Abasto.
A collaborative community health effort
This health day is the result of a collaboration between a key municipal health provider and a major public hub. The Asunción Municipal Polyclinic plays a vital role in the city’s public health infrastructure, offering a range of medical services to residents. By partnering with the Mercado de Abasto, a bustling central market, the polyclinic can extend its reach beyond traditional clinical settings.
Mercado de Abasto is located on Defensores del Chaco avenue in Asunción, near Pykasú street, making it a familiar landmark for many residents. This strategic choice of venue is intended to remove common barriers to accessing healthcare, such as distance and unfamiliarity.
Focus on preventive care and early diagnosis
The primary objective of the initiative is to identify digestive health issues before they become more serious. Gastritis, an inflammation of the stomach lining, is one of the specific conditions the screening aims to detect. Early diagnosis is crucial for managing such ailments effectively, often through dietary changes and medical treatment, which can prevent further complications. Therefore, the programme serves as a proactive measure to improve community health outcomes.
Organisers highlighted that the initiative seeks to foster a culture of regular health monitoring among the public. Digestive health is fundamental to overall physical wellness, yet symptoms are often overlooked until they become chronic or severe. By providing accessible and free diagnostic services, the campaign encourages individuals to take a more active role in managing their health and seeking medical advice when needed. This approach is fundamental to reducing the long-term burden on the public healthcare system.
What to expect during the screening
The screening process will involve several key steps conducted by qualified health professionals. Attendees will first undergo a nutritional evaluation. This assessment is designed to review an individual’s dietary habits and lifestyle, which are significant factors in digestive health. This consultation provides an opportunity for participants to receive personalised advice on improving their nutrition to support a healthy digestive system. Following this, a blood sample will be taken from each participant.
The blood samples will be analysed for the presence of specific antibodies, which can serve as indicators for certain digestive conditions. This method provides a safe and effective way to screen for potential issues without requiring more invasive procedures at this initial stage. The combination of the nutritional assessment and the blood test will allow for a comprehensive initial diagnosis, enabling timely intervention and follow-up care if any issues are detected.
Event details and eligibility
The free digestive screening is open to individuals aged between 18 and 60. Participation is entirely voluntary and available without any cost. The event is scheduled for the morning of Tuesday, 7 April, running from 07:00 until 11:00.
For individuals seeking additional information regarding the event, the organisers have provided a contact telephone number. Further details can be obtained by calling (0993) 501 403.
Also read: Your Guide To Hospitals And Medical Care In The Asunción Metropolitan Area.
