The Academic Council of DM Hospitals, Thakurpukur, successfully organized its 20th Annual Health Fair at the hospital premises, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to community healthcare and disease prevention. This year’s event focused on creating awareness about Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), with students from local schools playing a leading role in educating the public.
Since launching its first Health Fair in 2007, DM Hospitals has consistently worked to promote public awareness about kidney health. Under the visionary leadership of renowned nephrologist and Chairperson Dr. Dayanath Mishra, along with the guidance of Administrative Director Ms. Annapurna Mishra, the hospital has pioneered a unique community outreach initiative that combines medical expertise with student participation.
Recognizing that lasting public awareness begins with education, Dr. Mishra introduced a program that trains school students on the basics of chronic kidney disease. His vision was that informed students could effectively spread life-saving knowledge within their families and communities, extending the reach of healthcare education beyond hospital walls.
India bears the world’s second-highest burden of chronic kidney disease after China. The leading causes of CKD are uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension. Doctors at the Health Fair emphasized that individuals living with these conditions should undergo kidney function tests at least once a year, as early detection can significantly slow or even prevent disease progression.
In preparation for the Health Fair, participating students received intensive training over a two-month period on the early signs, risk factors, and prevention of chronic kidney disease. Equipped with this knowledge, they actively engaged with visitors, encouraging healthy lifestyle choices and the importance of regular kidney screening.
A key highlight of this year’s event was the students’ demonstration of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). They trained members of the public in this vital life-saving technique, emphasizing how timely CPR can improve survival chances for individuals who suddenly collapse due to cardiac arrest.
Each year, DM Hospitals provides specialized health education to 50 selected students, nurturing them as future community health ambassadors. In addition, the hospital conducts monthly Continuing Medical Education (CME) programs for general practitioners and public awareness sessions on diabetes and hypertension. To date, more than 150 CME programs have been successfully organized.
Patients currently receiving treatment at DM Hospitals also participated in the Health Fair, sharing their personal experiences and highlighting both the challenges and benefits of kidney care. The hospital’s dedicated Emergency Department, equipped to manage acute kidney emergencies, was also showcased during the event.
Doctors reiterated that individuals with nephritis, diabetes, or high blood pressure should undergo regular kidney health assessments to prevent complications. Hundreds of local residents attended the Health Fair and benefited from free health check-ups. Those identified as being at high risk were provided personalized counseling and guidance for further evaluation and treatment.
Through initiatives such as its Annual Health Fair, DM Hospitals continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to preventive healthcare, community education, and the early detection of chronic kidney disease, helping build a healthier and more informed society.
