Thalassemia Awareness Session Conducted by Rotary Club at K. M. Kotkar Dnyanmandir Junior College
Around 300 Students Participate; Free Thalassemia Minor Screening Scheduled for October 27
Dombivli: Under the special initiative ‘End Thalassemia Now’ (ETN) run by the Rotary Club of Dombivli East, a successful Thalassemia Awareness Programme was organized on October 21, 2026, at K. M. Kotkar Dnyanmandir Junior College.
To create widespread awareness among students, five simultaneous sessions were conducted, reaching approximately 300 junior college students. Detailed information about the serious genetic disorder was shared during these sessions led by Past President Dr. Madhav Baitule, Rtn. Dr. Bhakti Lote, Dr. Hemish Joshi, and Dr. Nilesh Patil.
On this occasion, the doctors provided valuable insights into what thalassemia is, its hereditary nature, the importance of carrier screening, and effective measures to prevent its transmission to future generations. The medical experts emphasized that early awareness among youth will help them make informed matrimonial and life decisions, thereby preventing the birth of children affected by Thalassemia Major.
The awareness drive received an encouraging response from the students. Following the sessions, a majority of the students willingly consented to undergo free Thalassemia Minor screening on October 27, 2026, under the Government of Maharashtra’s special health programme.
Rtn. Sangita Pakhale, Principal of K. M. Kotkar Dnyanmandir College and a Rotary member, took commendable efforts to organize and successfully execute this noble initiative. This drive marks a crucial milestone in Rotary’s mission to build a ‘Thalassemia-Free Society’ through education, screening, and community participation.
The successful organization of the programme earned widespread appreciation for Rtn. Atharva Joshi (President, Rotary Club of Dombivli East), Rtn. Subodh (Hon. Secretary), and the entire ‘End Thalassemia Now’ (ETN) team.