Arunachal: TRIHMS organizes Lupus awareness program
NAHARLAGUN: The rheumatology department of the Tomo Riba Institute of Health & Medical Sciences (TRIHMS) here organised a ‘lupus awareness programme’ on Saturday, with the objective of creating awareness about systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), promoting early diagnosis, encouraging treatment adherence, and empowering patients and caregivers with knowledge for better disease management.
The programme witnessed the participation of more than 74 lupus patients, along with their relatives, friends and caregivers, and MBBS final year students of the TRIHMS. The event provided a platform for interaction between the patients and healthcare professionals, helping the participants understand the various aspects of lupus and its impact on different organs of the body.
The programme was conducted under the leadership of Dr Yapi Jerang of the rheumatology department, who highlighted the importance of early detection, regular follow-up, and multidisciplinary care in improving the quality of life of lupus patients.
She also emphasised the need to dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding autoimmune diseases through sustained public awareness.
The awareness programme featured expert lectures by Dermatology Assistant Professor Dr Ivoreen Darung, Ophthalmology Assistant Professor Dr Taw Dipu, OB&GYN Assistant Professor Dr Narang Yam, and Medicine Assistant Professor Dr TagruRaju, who served as resource persons.
They delivered informative presentations on lupus-related complications and manifestations linked to their respective specialties, stressing the importance of coordinated care among different medical departments in managing the disease effectively. They dispelled the myths and doubts of the patients with insightful knowledge and expertise during the interactive session.
The interactive session allowed the patients and caregivers to share their experiences, seek clarifications regarding treatment, and learn practical measures for coping with the challenges posed by lupus.
The programme also focused on the role of family support, mental wellbeing, healthy lifestyle practices, and adherence to prescribed medications.
The participants expressed appreciation for the initiative and called for more such awareness programmes in the future to enhance understanding and support for people living with lupus.
