Timely awareness can save lives: Prof. Fazlul Qadir Parray
KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, May 15: SKIMS Medical College Hospital (MCH), Bemina, organized a morning awareness walk on the eve of World Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) Day, observed annually on May 16, 2026, with the aim of spreading awareness about Hereditary Angioedema, a rare yet potentially life-threatening medical condition. The awareness drive witnessed enthusiastic participation from medical students, healthcare professionals, faculty members, and paramedical staff, reflecting the institution’s commitment to public health education and preventive healthcare initiatives.
The awareness walk was conducted within the college premises and focused on sensitizing participants and the general public about the seriousness of Hereditary Angioedema (HAE), a rare inherited disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of swelling affecting various parts of the body, including the face, hands, feet, abdomen, and throat. Medical experts highlighted that unlike common allergic reactions, HAE-related swelling is not usually accompanied by itching or hives and often does not respond to standard anti-allergy medications, making timely diagnosis and specialized treatment crucial.
Doctors and faculty members emphasized that one of the most dangerous complications of HAE is swelling of the throat and airways, which can obstruct breathing and become fatal if immediate medical attention is not provided. The event aimed to educate future healthcare providers about recognizing the diverse clinical manifestations of the disease and ensuring early intervention for affected patients.
The awareness campaign saw the participation of several distinguished faculty members and dignitaries from SKIMS Medical College and the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists (IADVL), Jammu and Kashmir chapter. Among those present were Principal SKIMS MCH, Prof. Dr. Fazlul Qadir Parray; Associate Dean, Prof. Aijaz Rather; Head of the Department of Dermatology and President IADVL J&K, Prof. Dr. Seema Qayoom; Honorary Secretary IADVL J&K, Dr. Peerzada Sajad; Treasurer IADVL J&K, Dr. Khalid Abbas; Professor, Department of Dermatology, Prof. (Dr.) Farah Sameem; and Professor, Department of Pathology, Dr. J.B. Singh.
Addressing the participants on the occasion, Principal SKIMS MCH, Prof. Dr. Fazlul Qadir Parray, encouraged students and healthcare workers to adopt healthy lifestyle practices and actively participate in awareness activities that contribute to better public understanding of serious medical conditions. He appreciated the collective efforts of the faculty, students, and organizing team in promoting awareness regarding rare diseases that often remain underdiagnosed due to limited public knowledge.
The event also served as a message of solidarity with patients living with Hereditary Angioedema, many of whom face challenges due to delayed diagnosis and lack of awareness regarding the condition. Organizers reiterated that increasing awareness among medical professionals and the public can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life through timely identification and appropriate management.
Participants carrying awareness messages and engaging in discussions during the walk underscored the importance of continued educational campaigns in the field of rare diseases. The initiative concluded with a renewed commitment from the institution and participating healthcare professionals to continue promoting awareness, early diagnosis, and compassionate care for individuals affected by HAE.
