‘Mission Swasth Kavach’: 36% farmers found hypertensive at PAU Kisan Mela
Startling revelations were made during the medical camp organised by Dayanand Medical College and Hospital at the recently held Kisan Mela at Punjab Agricultural University. It was discovered that even farmers, who are tirelessly working in the fields, are increasingly becoming hypertensive. Of the total individuals screened at the camp, 36 per cent were found to be hypertensive, with many unaware of their condition.
Out of the 1,500 individuals screened, around 539 (36%) were diagnosed with hypertension. Among them, 103 were started on medication, while 436 were advised to make lifestyle modifications. Additionally, 73 individuals (5%) were diagnosed with diabetes, with 21 being prescribed medication to manage the condition.
The screening drive was part of ‘Mission Swasth Kavach,’ an initiative designed to raise awareness about hypertension, diabetes and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), while providing health screening, counselling and treatment services to the rural population. Dr Bishav Mohan, Project Head of ‘Mission Swasth Kavach’ and Chief Cardiologist, cum coordinator of HDHI, emphasised the significance of the campaign.
Along with the screenings, free medicines were distributed to those in need and educational materials such as books and pamphlets were given out to increase awareness about hypertension, diabetes and CPR. These resources aimed to empower the rural population with knowledge to maintain their health and well-being. NSS volunteers played a vital role in raising awareness through pamphlets and posters that highlighted the risks of uncontrolled blood pressure and diabetes, urging people to undergo screening.
“I got my blood pressure checked and was shocked to know that I had high blood pressure. The doctors advised me to start medication, but I had no symptoms of high blood pressure,” said Kartar Singh, a farmer from Moga.
Bipin Gupta, Secretary of DMC&H Managing Society, stated that their participation in the Kisan Mela is a step forward in providing timely diagnosis and treatment to the rural population, especially for conditions that progress silently.
Dr Bishav Mohan explained, “Through CPR demonstrations at events like the Kisan Mela, we aim to empower the public, particularly in rural areas, with the knowledge and confidence to perform CPR, ensuring they are better prepared to respond in emergencies and potentially save lives.”
During the drive, more than 20 CPR sessions were conducted for 187 attendees, with 105 individuals participating in hands-on CPR. As part of the Mission Swasth Kavach initiative, individuals diagnosed with hypertension and diabetes received comprehensive care, which included personalised diagnosis, treatment details, a simple illustration explaining how hypertension affects the body’s organs and a dedicated helpline number for guidance, motivation and support in achieving effective blood pressure control.
