A student undergoes a blood pressure check during the free health camp organised as part of Immanuel College’s Health Campaign in Dimapur on August 30.
Dimapur, August 31 (MExN): Immanuel College, Dimapur, conducted a Health Campaign on August 30 under the initiative of the Department of Economics in collaboration with Red Ribbon Club, Primary Urban Health Centre (PUHC), Duncan, Dimapur and DISHA, Dimapur at the College Auditorium.
The resource speakers for the event were Dr. Limanaro, Dental Officer, Urban Primary Health Centre, Duncan, Dimapur and Titepeni Merry, Counselor, Mobile ICTC, DISHA Dimapur.
The campaign consisted of two sessions—a formal programme and provision of free medical health check-up for the college community. The formal programme was chaired by Songmo Khiamniungan, while the welcome address was delivered by Dr. T. Imchanochetla Changkija, Vice Principal, Immanuel College.
Delivering the theme message “Healthy Living for a Better Tomorrow,” Dr. Limanaro highlighted the importance of holistic care of health involving physical, mental and social wellbeing. She stated that “overall health can be achieved through balanced nutrition, regular exercise, sufficient sleep and strong social connection.”
Emphasising on social connection, she encouraged the gathering to “stay connected with friends, family and community and maintain a positive attitude.” She further urged them to “seek help and reach out to loved ones and professionals in times of need especially if one is struggling in life.”
She stressed on the importance of regular check-ups to monitor one’s health status and advised avoidance of harmful habits. On oral health, she pointed out that “tobacco is the leading cause of cancer, with around 90% of oral cancer linked to tobacco use.” She noted that in Nagaland, “the rate of tobacco usage is particularly high with 69% males and 43% females using tobacco, and 43% of these users being school-going children.”
She underscored that “no form tobacco use is safe” and advised that “quitting such addictive substances is crucial for good health.” She also outlined oral hygiene practices such as brushing, replacing toothbrush on time and mouth washing, stressing that “all these are crucial to maintain oral health.” She concluded her address by encouraging everyone to incorporate these habits into their daily lives “for a healthier and happier life.”
Titepeni Merry, speaking on HIV awareness, advised youngsters to “abstain from sex before marriage and avoid intoxication.” While highlighting that “HIV is transmitted through sex, sharing of needle, blood transfusion and mother to child,” she urged the students to “take responsibilities of their health and stay protected.”
She explained the availability of treatment, the importance of knowing one’s status and to “get tested and treated.” She encouraged the gathering to “stay protected and spread awareness to loved ones.”
The Health Campaign was supported by 14 medical workers including three doctors. A total of 88 students and teachers availed free health check-ups which included HIV tests, blood pressure screening, cholesterol level, oral check-ups, among others. Of these, 37 students were tested for HIV. Free medicines were also provided to those who received treatment.
Earlier, the formal event began with an invocation by Elika N. Chishi, Assistant Professor, Department of Education. Presentation of gifts to the guests was carried out by Dr. S. Temsusenla Ao, HoD, Department of Economics. The programme concluded with words of gratitude from Ngipso, Convener of Red Ribbon Club, Immanuel College, followed by benediction from Dr. Sophiya Ezung, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology.
Meanwhile, in a separate initiative, the Immanuel College Alumni Association organised Alumni Day 2.0 under the theme “We Care” at the College Conference Hall, as part of the We Care Campaign.
