Indian Army's Golden Key Combat Healers Champion Congenital Heart Disease Awareness in Dehradun
The Indian Army's Golden Key Combat Healers have taken a proactive stance in the fight against congenital heart defects by organizing a comprehensive Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) Awareness Week from February 8 to 14. This initiative focused on early detection and widespread education about congenital heart diseases affecting children, with a series of impactful activities held in Dehradun.
Educational Kickoff at Birpur Auditorium
The awareness program was launched at the Birpur Auditorium with a special interactive lecture dedicated to congenital heart disease. The session was expertly delivered by Colonel Harmeet Singh Arora, a pediatric cardiology specialist and commanding officer of the hospital. During his presentation, Colonel Arora emphasized the critical importance of early diagnosis for congenital heart defects, outlined common warning signs that parents and caregivers should watch for, and detailed the various treatment options available to patients.
Additionally, the lecture addressed and debunked prevalent myths associated with congenital heart disease, providing clear, factual information to dispel misconceptions. To foster greater public engagement, the event also featured a quiz competition and informative displays, encouraging attendees to actively participate and learn more about this vital health issue.
Extensive Screening Drive at Military Hospital
A cornerstone of the awareness week was an extensive screening drive conducted by the pediatric cardiology team at the Military Hospital in Dehradun. More than 250 school children underwent detailed medical examinations, including advanced echocardiography, at the hospital's pediatric ward. The primary goal of this initiative was to identify any underlying congenital heart defects in these young individuals and provide them with timely medical advice and intervention.
The hospital has ambitious plans to expand this effort, aiming to screen at least 1,000 students in the coming days as the screening campaign continues. This proactive approach underscores the commitment to early detection and prevention, which are crucial for improving outcomes in children with congenital heart conditions.
Community Engagement Through Walkathon
To further amplify awareness and community involvement, a live walkathon titled “Half a Day, Double the Effort” was organized on the streets of Dehradun. The event saw a large turnout, with numerous pre-primary and primary school children, along with their families and Army personnel, participating enthusiastically. This walkathon served as a powerful symbol of collective effort in raising awareness about congenital heart disease, bringing together diverse segments of the community to support a common cause.
The Golden Key Combat Healers' initiative highlights the Indian Army's dedication to public health and community welfare, demonstrating how military resources can be leveraged to address critical healthcare challenges. By focusing on education, screening, and community engagement, this awareness week has made significant strides in promoting early detection and better understanding of congenital heart disease among children in Dehradun.
