Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct. 7: The health risks linked to prolonged alcohol consumption and the importance of recognising harmful drinking patterns early were highlighted during an awareness session held at the Urban Health and Training Centre (UHTC), Haddo, by the Department of Community Medicine, ANIIMS.
The session on “Alcohol Use, Its Health Impacts and Prevention” sought to encourage preventive action by informing the community about the health and social consequences of alcohol use, promoting early recognition of harmful drinking and encouraging timely healthcare-seeking and healthier lifestyle choices.
Participants were informed that prolonged alcohol consumption can affect multiple organ systems, including the liver, brain, heart and cardiovascular system, pancreas, gastrointestinal tract, immune system and reproductive system. The session also addressed its association with several cancers.
The programme further highlighted the availability of counselling, treatment and de-addiction support through government health facilities in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Participants were encouraged to seek professional assistance at an early stage instead of delaying care because of stigma or misconceptions.
ANIIMS Director Mukesh Tripathi provided guidance for the programme. The awareness session was conducted by Bhavya Nair under the mentorship of Ajay Raj, Samar Hossain, Aanchal Anand, Mitul Saha and Razeeda Banu.
The initiative focused on translating health awareness into preventive behaviour by helping participants identify harmful drinking patterns and understand the importance of seeking appropriate support without delay.
The session also sought to reinforce healthier lifestyle choices and timely access to healthcare among community members, with the discussion covering both the wider social consequences of harmful alcohol use and its potential impact on physical health.
