 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Oct 2: The Central Government Pensioners' Welfare Association (CGPWA), Jammu, in collaboration with the Home for the Aged and Infirm in Ambphalla, celebrated the 33rd International Day of the Older Person with an illuminating Health Talk on 'Urinary Diseases including Prostate.'
Dr. Rahul Gupta, an esteemed Urologist and Associate Professor in the Department of Urology & Renal Transplant at Government Medical College, Jammu, delivered a highly informative lecture. Dr. Gupta, who specializes in advanced Endourology and Laparoscopy, addressed various aspects of urinary diseases, particularly among older individuals.
Dr. Gupta emphasized the importance of seniors being health-conscious and seeking medical evaluation from specialists rather than resorting to self-medication. He cautioned against relying on Google or social media for medical advice, as this approach can lead to potentially serious health conditions. He encouraged older individuals to take advantage of the diagnostic equipment available at Jammu Medical College and other government health facilities.
The discussion centered on prostate-related issues, which can cause urinary problems among men. Dr. Gupta highlighted the significance of not ignoring symptoms related to urinary problems. He explained that every man has a prostate, a reproductive organ located below the bladder, and changes in this gland can lead to urinary issues. He also discussed Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS), which can result from urinary system infections, bladder outlet obstruction, kidney cysts, ureteral obstruction, or urethral stricture. Specific conditions like prostatic enlargement or hyperplasia, prostate cancer, kidney infections, neurological conditions, high-pressure retention, and urinary tract infections (UTIs) can also contribute to LUTS.
Dr. Gupta highlighted four indicators of advanced disease: increased urine frequency, overflow incontinence, a persistent feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen, bed-wetting, fever accompanied by urinary burning, and pedal edema.
For the overall well-being of senior citizens, Dr. Gupta recommended regular medical tests, which he referred to as the "crucial four." These tests include urinalysis, serum PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen), serum creatinine, and non-invasive transabdominal ultrasonography. Dr. Gupta also advised a return to traditional Indian vegetarian cuisine, considered well-balanced and beneficial for health.
In his presidential address, Dr. Ashok Bhan, former DGP, commended the CGPWA for organizing valuable and enlightening Health Talks to commemorate national and international days. Dr. Bhan agreed with Dr. Gupta that concealing symptoms could be detrimental to one's health and highlighted the challenges posed by an aging population.
Dr. Bhan referred to senior citizens as "young veterans" and urged them to remain active and engaged socially, as isolating oneself post-retirement can have significant personal and health consequences. He shared a recent viral story of a person who would pay for someone to knock on his door simply to enjoy a brief conversation, highlighting the importance of human connection in old age.
Guest of Honour B. R. Sharma, State Election Commissioner, Jammu & Kashmir, and Life Member of the CGPWA, cautioned older individuals against self-medication and self-diagnosis, emphasizing that these practices could lead to irreversible medical disorders. He encouraged members to remain active and engaged in various activities, reinforcing the idea that they are "young old" and have much to contribute.
The International Day for Older Persons, celebrated since 1991 worldwide, has a meaningful theme each year. The theme for 2023 is "Fulfilling the Promise of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of the Older Persons: Across Generations." This celebration aligns with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and fosters commitments to protect the human rights of older individuals around the world.
D. Soni, President of the Home for the Aged and Infirm, co-host of the event, and a prominent educationist and social activist, encouraged senior citizens to follow the underlying teachings of Hindu holy scriptures and embody virtues such as good conduct, a noble mind, physical and spiritual purity, compassion, missionary zeal, selflessness, and becoming exemplary human beings. He advised pensioners to stay active in retirement and continue contributing to society.
The event began with a welcome address by K. B. Jandial, the General Secretary of the CGPWA, who explained the purpose of designating October 1 as the International Day for Older Persons. The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Dr. Sudarshan Kumar, Vice President of the CGPWA, who suggested that social organizations consider visiting rural areas and interacting with older individuals in need of attention and support. |
