Early diagnosis and treatment of allergies key to healthier childhoods

Srinagar, Oct 29: In the first of its kind event in Kashmir, a Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme on New Frontiers in Pediatric Allergy was held at Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Medical College Hospital on Tuesday, bringing together renowned experts to discuss the latest advancements in childhood allergy diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

The event ‘Allergy and Pulmonology Update 2024’ focused specifically on pediatric allergy care.

Head of Pediatrics at SKIMS Medical College Hospital, Prof Riyaz Malik emphasised the importance of such discussions for the pediatric patients in Kashmir.

“This CME brought together a distinguished lineup of experts from leading institutions, including Dr P K Vedanthan from IAS Colorado, Dr Sowmya Nagarajan, Dr Neeraj Gupta along with faculty from Cochin, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi,” Prof Malik said. “We explored the nature of allergies, preventive strategies, and innovative treatment modalities that will undoubtedly benefit the pediatric population here.”

The programme was attended by Director SKIMS Dr Muhammad Ashraf Ganie as Patron.

He underscored the significance of this event, particularly in light of seasonal shifts that affect respiratory health.

“In Kashmir, seasonal transitions from summer to autumn and spring to summer frequently lead to a rise in viral infections and allergies,” he said.

Dr Ganie commended the initiative, noting that it was instrumental in enhancing knowledge and promoting better patient care during these critical times.

Head of Pediatrics at GMC Srinagar, Prof Muzaffar Jan, discussed the substantial impact of allergies on children’s overall well-being, noting that approximately 20-30 percent of children suffer from allergies, which could affect not only their physical health but also their emotional well-being, academic performance, and family dynamics.

“It is essential to focus on preventive strategies and effective treatment modalities,” Prof Jan said. “This approach will enhance the quality of childhood, supporting both physical and emotional development in children.”

Dr Ghulam Hassan, a renowned expert in allergy treatment, highlighted how recent advancements in research have transformed allergy care.

He presented the latest findings on allergy management, emphasising that these developments could improve clinical practice and patient outcomes.

Dr Hassan stressed that key preventive measures - targeted vaccinations for vulnerable children, minimising exposure to overcrowded spaces, prioritising high-protein diets, ensuring adequate hydration, and promoting fresh food – were essential for reducing allergy risks among children.

The event featured in-depth sessions on various aspects of allergy management, providing attendees with the latest in both traditional and emerging treatments.

Various approaches to implementing effective allergy prevention and patient care practices equipped doctors to manage allergy-related issues in their respective areas of work.