The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) organized a *Diabetes Screening and Awareness Camp* at Dudoo, Marhama, a tribal village in Anantnag districtunder its SSR Outreach Initiative, supported by the DST–PURSE Programme. The initiative was a part of the University’s programme to community health outreach and evidence-based public health interventions in underserved areas.
The camp aimed to create awareness about diabetes and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with a special focus on the Gujjar Bakerwal community. Participants were sensitized about risk factors, complications, prevention, and management of diabetes, as well as the alarming global rise in the disease, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The programme also emphasized the importance of early detection through community-level screening.
As part of the outreach, a multidisciplinary team from IUST conducted free screenings and diagnostic tests for diabetes, hypertension, anemia, and other NCDs. Medical consultations and essential medicines were provided on-site, benefitting a large number of local residents. In addition, a structured epidemiological survey was carried out to collect data on personal and family health history and socio-economic status, contributing to a broader understanding of chronic disease patterns in tribal populations.
The activity was organized under the banner of the “Comprehensive Epidemiological Survey of Chronic Diseases”.