103 sickle cell patients screened at Wadhona health camp, carrom coins used to explain heredity

A health camp for sickle cell patients was held at the primary health centre in Wadhona, Chandrapur district. It was organised under the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan through the National AYUSH Mission. A total of 103 patients were examined at the camp, held under the guidance of District Health Officer Dr Ashok Katare.

Patients were also given counselling and medicines. The highlight of the camp was the use of carrom coins to explain heredity, so that people could grasp the subject easily.

The camp was told that sickle cell is a hereditary blood disorder. According to the organisers, the disease can be managed effectively through timely diagnosis, regular medical check-ups, proper medication, a balanced diet and counselling. With this aim, patients were provided the necessary medical guidance and counselling under the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan.

The patients were examined by Dr Ghanshyam Kodwani, a former professor at the Government Ayurveda College in Nagpur, and Dr Dhananjay Hange, Assistant Director of AYUSH. The two doctors listened to the patients' health complaints, advised them on the required treatment and gave them medicines.

District coordinator Santosh Chatreshwar spoke on the nature of sickle cell disease, its genetic causes, preventive measures and the importance of regular check-ups. He also informed patients about the various government schemes and facilities available to them. Since sickle cell is a hereditary disease, he also stressed the importance of testing before marriage and before pregnancy.

A demonstration using carrom coins showed in simple terms how the genetic inheritance of the disease can pass to the next generation.

The camp appealed to sickle cell patients to get regular health check-ups, take medicines as advised by their doctor, drink enough water and eat a balanced diet. They were also asked to contact the nearest health facility immediately if they experience any trouble or symptom related to the disease.

District AYUSH Officer Dr Sainath Bhovare, Nagbhid Taluka Health Officer Dr Abhijit Banpurkar, Wadhona primary health centre medical officer Dr Rahul Dorlikar and Dr Parvez Shaikh, medical officer at the AYUSH Arogyavardhini Centre in Savargaon, made special efforts to organise the camp. Dr Balu Munjankar, Dr Gajendra Ahirkar, Dr Chaitanya Chaudhari and Dr Vivek Bolkhe, resident medical officers at the Government Ayurveda College in Nagpur, and medical officer Dr Sachin Surnar also contributed.

District coordinator Santosh Chatreshwar gave the introductory address at the event, while Amborkar proposed the vote of thanks.