A symposium marking “World Neglected Tropical Disease Day” under the theme “Unite, Act, Eliminate” was successfully organized by Indian Association of Dermatologists Venereologists and Leprologists (IADVL)and Special Interest Group Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in collaboration with the Department of Dermatology and the National Institute of Nursing Education, PGIMER, Chandigarh, on January 30, 2024, at the NINE auditorium, PGIMER Chandigarh. The event witnessed active participation from a total of 150 attendees.
The symposium was inaugurated by Prof Sanjeev Handa, Head of the Department of Dermatology, PGIMER, who shed light on the scale and unmet needs in NTDs. Dr Sukhpal Kaur, Principal of NINE, emphasized the crucial role of nurses as frontline healthcare providers in combating NTDs.
Dr Tarun Narang, Additional Professor (department of Dermatology, PGI, Chandigarh) and Coordinator of SIG, NTD, (IADVL), underscored the imperative of global collaboration to tackle the health challenges faced by marginalized communities and collectively address neglected tropical diseases. The symposium encompassed a diverse array of topics essential for addressing the challenges posed by NTDs, including skin NTDs, tropical fever with rash, leprosy, the One Health approach to NTDs, WASH initiatives, and the significance of mental health in NTDs by the experts.
In the lead-up to the symposium, students and their teachers orchestrated various activities dedicated to promoting health awareness and education within the community.
Health melas were organized at different dispensaries in Chandigarh to raise awareness about NTDs and common skin diseases, with a specific emphasis on the importance of sanitation and hygiene. Additionally, a poster competition was held on 25th January, aligning with this year›s NTD day theme «Unite, Act, Eliminate,» with recognition given to the top three posters during the symposium.
This symposium serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts and dedication of all involved in addressing the challenges posed by NTDs and fostering greater awareness and understanding within our communities.