ANF Organizes Free Health Camp for Tribal Communities in Naxal-Affected Regions
In a significant effort to enhance healthcare accessibility in Naxalite-affected areas, the Anti-Naxal Force (ANF) conducted a free health check-up camp for tribal communities from Udupi and Chikkamagaluru districts. The event took place at the JCU training school in Kukkundur near Karkala on Sunday, drawing a positive public response.
Inauguration and Leadership
The camp was led by ANF Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar and inaugurated by Amarashri Amarnath Shetty, president of the K Amarnath Shetty Charitable Trust and associate dean at AB Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences. A team of medical professionals supported the initiative, which aimed to bring healthcare services directly to the doorsteps of tribals in remote Naxal-affected regions and promote awareness about preventive healthcare.
Collaborative Support and Services
The health camp was organized with the support of several healthcare institutions, including Prasad Nethralaya in Udupi, KMC Hospital in Manipal, K Amarnath Shetty Charitable Trust in Moodubidire, AB Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, AJ Cancer Institute, and the Indian Cancer Society. Approximately 60 medical experts provided services across multiple specialties, ensuring comprehensive care for attendees.
Participation and Logistics
A total of 136 individuals from the Malekudiya, Hasalaru, and Gowdlu tribal communities attended the camp. To overcome transportation challenges in remote areas, ANF personnel used official vehicles to ferry participants to and from the venue, ensuring their safe arrival and return after examinations.
Health Screenings and Outcomes
The camp offered a wide range of health screenings, including:
- Cancer screenings for ENT, breast, and cervical cancer
- Dental examinations
- Blood pressure and diabetes checks
- Women's health assessments
- Skin-related condition evaluations
Key results from the screenings include:
- Vision screening for 105 persons, with 60 receiving free spectacles
- 15 patients identified for free surgery at Prasad Nethralaya in Udupi
- Dental examinations for 65 individuals, with 18 referred to AB Shetty Dental College and Bailoor Dental College for further treatment
- Breast and cervical cancer screenings for 105 women, leading to one suspected breast cancer case referred to AJ Cancer Institute and samples collected from 28 women for testing, with follow-up actions pending based on reports
Additional Support
ANF provided food and refreshments for both participants and medical teams during the camp, ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment for all involved. This initiative underscores the commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes for vulnerable tribal populations in challenging regions.
