Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 01 December 2024
The Department of Community Medicine, ANIIMS, organised a Continuing Medical Education (CME) program themed “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Rights!” to commemorate World AIDS Day 2024. The event highlighted the importance of a rights-based approach to health, focusing on equitable access to HIV/AIDS care and the creation of a stigma-free society.
The CME witnessed the participation of Dr. Suja Antony, Director, ANIIMS & Director of Health Services, and Medical Superintendent of GB Pant Hospital. Program Officers from the Directorate of Health Services, faculty members, and students of ANIIMS were also in attendance. The panel of speakers featured experts from diverse specialties, including Community Medicine, Psychiatry, Microbiology, General Medicine, and TB & Chest, reflecting a multidisciplinary effort to combat HIV/AIDS.
The program commenced with a keynote address by Dr. Arup Saha, Senior Resident, Department of Community Medicine, who elaborated on this year’s theme. Dr. Subrata Saha, Project Director, ANACS, delivered a comprehensive review of regional initiatives aimed at addressing HIV/AIDS in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Dr. Mitesh Behari, Consultant Psychiatrist, led a session focusing on the mental health challenges faced by HIV-affected communities, while Dr. Snehaa K., Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology, presented insights on community-based HIV testing strategies.
The CME also delved into technical aspects of HIV management. Dr. Sivaram Appavoo, Consultant in General Medicine, outlined the latest Antiretroviral Therapy guidelines, and Dr. Natraj M., Associate Professor, Department of TB & Chest, explored the complexities of managing HIV and TB co-infection. Each session included interactive Q&A discussions, fostering knowledge-sharing and practical takeaways.
This year’s theme underscored the importance of empowering individuals to claim their health rights while fostering a stigma-free and equitable healthcare environment. Such initiatives play a crucial role in raising awareness, encouraging early detection, and reducing stigma associated with HIV/AIDS. By involving diverse healthcare professionals and students, the CME reaffirmed the collective responsibility to eliminate AIDS as a public health threat.