A Village’s Battle Against Lifestyle Diseases

Vellavoor, nestled near Kanjirappally in Kottayam district, is spearheading an ambitious project named ‘Karuthal 2024’ to combat lifestyle diseases. With the collaborative efforts of the Swaruma Charitable Society, the grama panchayat, and the family health center, the village is determined to become diabetes-free.

Initiative Overview: Karuthal 2024

1. Mission Statement: Creating a Diabetes-Free Environment

Under the visionary leadership of Sreejith T S, the Vellavoor panchayat president, ‘Karuthal 2024’ aims to eradicate lifestyle diseases through a comprehensive approach encompassing awareness campaigns, improved diagnosis, and the establishment of health clubs. The ultimate goal is to safeguard the village population from the perils of conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.

2. Collaborative Efforts for Public Awareness

The initiative has garnered widespread support from villagers, who actively participated in a mass walk to promote awareness. Sreejith emphasized the importance of community involvement in effecting positive change, highlighting the significance of collective action in combating lifestyle diseases.

Implementation Strategies: Testing, Awareness, and Lifestyle Modifications

1. Testing and Diagnosis

Martina K Baby, project coordinator of the Swaruma Palliative Society, underscores the importance of early detection and treatment. Through extensive testing conducted in the panchayat’s eighth ward, the initiative identifies individuals requiring medical intervention and facilitates their access to treatment at the family health center.

2. Promoting Healthy Lifestyles

Recognizing the pivotal role of lifestyle choices in disease prevention, ‘Karuthal 2024’ collaborates with yoga trainers from the ayurveda hospital to conduct yoga classes. By encouraging residents to adopt healthy habits and offering yoga sessions tailored to mitigate the risk of lifestyle diseases, the initiative aims to foster a culture of wellness in the community.

Community Engagement and Awareness Campaigns

1. Cluster-Based Surveys and Awareness Programs

To ensure widespread coverage, the wards are organized into clusters for conducting surveys and awareness sessions. Asha workers and nurses actively engage with residents, disseminating information about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and encouraging regular medical check-ups.

2. Holistic Approach to Disease Prevention

By prioritizing both awareness and action, ‘Karuthal 2024’ endeavors to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources necessary to safeguard their health. Through a combination of educational initiatives, diagnostic services, and lifestyle interventions, the initiative strives to create a sustainable framework for disease prevention and wellness promotion.

A Beacon of Hope in Disease Prevention

Vellavoor’s journey towards becoming a diabetes-free village epitomizes the transformative power of community-driven initiatives. Through ‘Karuthal 2024,’ the collective efforts of stakeholders are paving the way for a healthier, disease-resistant future.