Awareness session targets students on prevention, screening and genetic counselling
Port Blair — Port Blair Guru Ki Rasoi on Saturday conducted a thalassaemia awareness camp at Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya (VKV), Lamba Line, aiming to sensitise young students to the disorder, its genetic basis and the importance of early screening and counselling.
The session was led by Mrs. Ankita, described by the organisers as a Board Certified Genetic Counsellor (Level I & II). According to the group, Mrs. Ankita explained the basic biology of thalassaemia and emphasised genetic counselling, screening and preventive measures, with particular focus on young people.
Port Blair Guru Ki Rasoi said it was grateful to Mrs. Jaya, Principal of VKV School, and the school management for facilitating the programme and providing a platform to reach the younger generation.
"Awareness among youngsters is one of the most powerful tools in preventing and managing thalassaemia. By educating our children today, we can help build a healthier and more informed society tomorrow," said Mandeep Grewal, Founder & President, Port Blair Guru Ki Rasoi.
What the session covered
- Basics of thalassaemia: causes and clinical implications, as explained by the counsellor.
- Genetic aspects: inheritance patterns and the role of carrier screening.
- Prevention and early detection: importance of screening and informed decision-making.
- Role of genetic counselling: how counselling can assist families in understanding risks and options.
The organisers reiterated their commitment to continuing health-awareness initiatives across schools and communities in the islands, stating that education, early screening and informed decision-making can make a meaningful difference in managing thalassaemia.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Organiser | Port Blair Guru Ki Rasoi |
| Venue | VKV School, Lamba Line, Port Blair |
| Resource person | Mrs. Ankita, Board Certified Genetic Counsellor (Level I & II) |
| Audience | Students and school management |
Local context and implications
Thalassaemia is a hereditary blood disorder that requires community-level awareness for effective prevention and management. Schools are commonly used venues for such campaigns because educating adolescents about carrier status and screening can influence future family planning and health-seeking behaviour. Port Blair Guru Ki Rasoi said the camp was part of its broader effort to carry out health-awareness activities across the islands.
By organising sessions in schools, the group aims to reach students at an age when knowledge about genetic disorders and the benefits of screening can be integrated into lifelong health decisions. The organisers also thanked the VKV school management for their support in enabling interaction between the counsellor and students.
No figures on screening uptake, follow-up referral pathways or plans for community screening were provided by the organisers in their report of the camp. The group expressed intent to continue similar initiatives but did not give a schedule for future events.
Public-health officials and medical practitioners commonly advise that awareness activities be matched with accessible screening services and counselling for those found to be carriers. The organisers’ emphasis on early screening and genetic counselling aligns with that approach, though the report did not indicate whether on-site testing or referrals were arranged following the session.
Port Blair residents seeking more information on thalassaemia screening and counselling are advised to consult local health authorities or designated blood disorder clinics for verified guidance and testing facilities.
