Mangalore: Father Muller Medical College Hospital (FMMCH) observed World Health Day 2026 with the theme “Together for Health: Stand with Science.” The highlight of the event was a health awareness programme titled “A Token of Care for the Guardians of the Road,” organized by the Quality department for the Mangalore Traffic Police personnel on 15th April 2026. With over 150 Traffic police participating in this ‘self-health’ awareness initiative.
The programme focused on promoting health and well-being among traffic police, addressing occupational health concerns and emphasizing preventive care. The initiative aimed to address common occupational health issues such as stress, fatigue, dermatological problems, problems due to noise pollution and constant exposure to high decibels, and lifestyle-related conditions leading to musculoskeletal problems. The event served as a gesture of appreciation for the dedicated service of traffic police personnel, while encouraging them to prioritize their health as they continue to safeguard public safety.
Dr. Uday Kumar, Medical Superintendent; extended a warm welcome to the dignitaries on the dais, including Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director FMCI; K. Ravi Shankar (KSPS) DCP (Crime & Traffic); Rev. Fr. George Jeevan Sequeira, Administrator, FMMCH; Rev. Dr Michael L Santhumayor, Administrator, FMMC; Shivkumar, Inspector of Police Traffic, along with all those gathered for the celebration.
Rev. Fr Faustine, welcomed the Chief Guest of the day, K. Ravi Shankar (KSPS), DCP (Crime & Traffic), with a sapling. A care package kit containing Father Muller Homoeopathic Pharmaceutical Division products aimed at helping manage heat-related discomfort and body pain commonly experienced during long hours of duty, was handed over by the Director FMCI to the Chief Guest.
Such care package kits were distributed to all the participants of the event. following which the Chief Guest delivered a very insightful and meaningful keynote address. A memento was also presented to commemorate the occasion.
The Presidential address delivered by the Director, FMCI, in eloquent Kannada was truly remarkable and deeply impactful. The richness of the language, combined with the depth of meaning in his message, created a profound impression and kept everyone thoroughly engaged and spellbound throughout the session focusing on the altruistic and dutiful nature of the traffic police works.
Following this were the Health awareness sessions
Session 1 was conducted by Dr. Rahul Nayak and Dr. Sushmitha, Senior Residents from the Department of Dermatology, Father Muller Medical College Hospital. The speakers made a commendable effort to sensitively and clearly explain the various health challenges faced by police personnel due to prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and extended hours of standing duty.
Session 2 was conducted by Dr. Cynthia Santhumayor, Principal, FMCOSH, who delivered an engaging and highly informative session on the effects of noise pollution and prolonged exposure to high-decibel sounds. Beginning with a clear explanation of the anatomy of the ear, she systematically guided the audience through the physiological impact of excessive noise on hearing.
Session 3, the concluding and highly valuable session, focused on the management of musculoskeletal problems. It was conducted by Pradeep KP, Lecturer, Father Muller College of Physiotherapy. Explaining in detail the various musculoskeletal issues commonly encountered due to prolonged standing, strenuous duty hours, and occupational strain. The session was made highly interactive through live demonstrations of simple yet effective exercises that can be practiced regularly to prevent and manage such conditions.
This was followed by a delicious lunch, which was served to all participants as part of the programme’s hospitality. The programme was compeered by Sonal Sophia Fernandes and Shyni Cardoza from the Quality Department The vote of thanks was proposed, gracefully acknowledging the contributions of all dignitaries, organizers, and participants who made the programme a grand success. This was followed by a solemn and patriotic rendition of the National Anthem, bringing the memorable occasion to a dignified and close.
Special appreciation and mention goes to Assistant Sub Inspector Harish HP PA to Dy Police Commissioner who helped with the deputing and management of Traffic Police for the event. Dr Kelvin Peter Pais Liaison Officer FMCI, Chitra Yathindra Quality Manager FMMCH for conceiving the idea, Leslie Rosario Marketing FMMCH for thoughtful contribution.
Mention goes out to Rev. Fr. George Jeevan Sequeira, Administrator, FMMCH for approving and delegating the logistics and guidance for the conception of the event.
The thoughtful gesture was greatly appreciated by everyone present, and the programme concluded on a highly positive note, with participants expressing satisfaction, gratitude, and happiness as they departed.NNN