Media Release
Mangaluru, May 10: In observance of World Thalassemia Day, the department of Paediatrics at Father Muller Medical College organised a comprehensive Continuing Medical Education (CME) workshop on May 10, at the Decennial Memorial Hall.
The theme of the event, “Update, Educate, Improve,” aimed at increasing awareness and advancing understanding of Thalassemia—a hereditary blood disorder—with a strong emphasis on collaborative learning and clinical insight.
The workshop was inaugurated in the presence of chief guest CA Shantharam Shetty, president of the Indian Red Cross Society – Dakshina Kannada, and was presided over by Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI).
Dr Anil Shetty, head of the department of Paediatrics and organising chairperson, welcomed the gathering and underlined the importance of equipping future paediatricians with the necessary knowledge to tackle Thalassemia effectively. He reiterated the significance of such academic initiatives in improving care strategies for affected individuals.
Delivering the keynote address, CA Shantharam Shetty spoke of the Indian Red Cross Society’s mission to provide free blood to the underprivileged and its commitment to holistic support. He shared insights from his background in finance to highlight the link between financial well-being and healthcare access. He also underscored the necessity of genetic screening for couples at risk to prevent transmission of hereditary disorders like Thalassemia.
In his presidential address, Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho lauded the Father Muller Thalassemia Centre for completing a year of dedicated service. He appreciated the synergy between departments—obstetrics & gynaecology, paediatrics, pathology, and the blood centre—in working towards maternal and child health.
Emphasising that Thalassemia is a manageable genetic condition, not a stigma, he assured patients of continued compassionate care. He expressed gratitude to Sankalp Foundation for providing free treatment and remarked, “Receiving blood is essential, but donating blood is a divine act—only blood can replace blood.” He concluded with a heartfelt prayer for global harmony and empathy.
Dr Chandana Pai, organising secretary, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing deep appreciation to the institution's leadership for supporting the establishment of the Thalassemia Centre. She noted the Centre’s role in offering free transfusions and holistic care to patients across and beyond the district.
In-house dignitaries present at the occasion included Fr Ajith Menezes, administrator, FMMC, and Dr Antony Sylvan Dsouza, dean, FMMC.
The day-long CME featured insightful sessions titled:
• Unravelling Thalassemia
• Decoding Thalassemia
• Sustaining lives of the affected
• Hidden battles in Thalassemia
• When iron turns into the enemy
• Hope in bone marrow
• Real-world challenges and bedside care
The academic day culminated with an interactive quiz competition, reinforcing key takeaways and promoting active engagement among participants.