SKIMS Medical College Organizes Comprehensive Awareness Programme
KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, May 17: In observance of World Hypertension Day, the Department of General Medicine at SKIMS Medical College, Bemina, organized a comprehensive and educational awareness program in the college auditorium, aiming to sensitize the public and medical community about the silent yet widespread health threat posed by hypertension.
According to a statement issued to Kashmir Despatch, the event commenced with an insightful welcome address by Dr. Tariq Bhat, In-Charge Head of the Department of General Medicine. He underlined the significance of early detection, proper treatment, and consistent monitoring in the effective management of high blood pressure. He called hypertension a major yet preventable cause of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure, urging the medical fraternity to play an active role in spreading awareness.
Prof. Dr. Fazl Q. Parray, Principal of the college, and Prof. Dr. Ajaz Rather, Registrar Academics, delivered the keynote addresses. Both speakers highlighted hypertension as a growing public health crisis globally and in the region, stressing the urgent need for lifestyle modifications, regular screenings, and patient education. They emphasized how behavioral changes such as reducing salt intake, managing stress, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco can drastically reduce the risk.
A major highlight of the event was an expert lecture delivered by Dr. Muzafar Naik, who presented a detailed overview of Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM). He explained that ABPM allows for 24-hour monitoring of blood pressure, offering a more accurate diagnosis, especially in patients with white coat hypertension or masked hypertension. Dr. Naik proudly noted that SKIMS Medical College is the only institution in the region providing this advanced diagnostic service, showcasing its commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation in patient care.
The program also included a student symposium on hypertension, where medical students showcased their understanding of the condition through presentations on various dimensions, including epidemiology, prevention, and treatment strategies. The symposium was evaluated by a panel of faculty members comprising Dr. Muzafar Naik, Dr. Manzoor Ahmad, and Dr. Ahad Wani. Prizes were awarded for the best presentations, aiming to foster a spirit of academic inquiry and peer learning among budding medical professionals.
Dr. Rozia Bukhari, Senior Resident from the Department of General Medicine, adeptly moderated and anchored the event, ensuring a seamless flow of the day’s proceedings.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Manzoor Ahmad extended a warm vote of thanks to all faculty members, students, the organizing committee, and support staff for their tireless efforts in making the event a resounding success.
The observance of World Hypertension Day at SKIMS Medical College underscored the institute’s ongoing commitment to public health education, advocacy, and technological advancement, reinforcing its pivotal role in addressing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases in the region.
