New Delhi, July 1: In a commendable initiative to celebrate National Doctors Day, the National Medical Forum, in collaboration with the Press Club of India (PCI), organized a free comprehensive medical checkup for its members. Held at Sanjeevan Hospital, the event saw the participation of over 200 journalists.
The medical checkup addressed a wide array of health concerns, including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, ENT (ear, nose, and throat) issues, joint pain, and surgical evaluations. In addition to these, diagnostic tests such as blood sugar, hemoglobin (Hb) levels, ECG (electrocardiogram), eye examinations, and dental checkups were conducted.
At the joint press conference, Dr. Prem Agrawal, President of the National Medical Forum, highlighted the alarming rise in coronary artery disease in India, particularly in urban areas. He revealed, “About 25% of people who suffer from heart disease in India are less than 40 years old, and approximately 50% of those who die from heart attacks are less than 50 years old. Often, misdiagnosis and the absence of proper treatment contribute to the development of heart attacks or even death.”
The program also featured insights from other eminent medical professionals. Dr. Girish Tyagi, President of the Delhi Medical Council (DMC), Dr. Raman Puri, President of the Lipid Association of India, and Dr. Charanjit, a retired professor of medicine from Safdarjung Hospital, discussed the increasing incidence of heart attacks among the youth.
Dr. Charanjit emphasized, “To prevent the rising cases of heart attacks among youth, it is crucial for everyone to come together collectively.”
Supporting the initiative, Gautam Lahiri, President of the Press Club of India, remarked, “This collaborative effort between the National Medical Forum and the Press Club of India represents a significant step towards prioritizing the health of journalists, who play a crucial role in our society.”
In a further effort to address the critical issue of heart disease, the National Medical Forum has launched a 24/7 chest pain helpline, 1800-3096096. Managed by senior consultants from Sanjeevan Hospital, the helpline offers expert guidance for managing chest pain. Residents of Delhi experiencing chest pain can avail themselves of this service free of cost, receiving immediate consultation to guide them to the nearest healthcare facility for appropriate treatment.
This joint initiative underscores the importance of proactive health measures and the need for accessible medical care for those who serve the public through journalism.
