Substance abuse and poor hygiene rampant in tribal pockets, stress experts from Nanavati Super Speciality Hospital

Mumbai: Increased substance abuse among school-going children and poor hygiene are widespread among the inhabitants of tribal pockets in Mira Road, reveal the findings of a health camp organized by Nanavati Super Speciality Hospital at the Adivasi Grameen Shala in the area. Around 105 people comprising 40 children availed the benefits of the free camp. One of the attendees at the camp had mouth cancer while the other was HIV positive.

Commenting on the general health condition of the people who attended the camp, Dr. Dhananjay Dukhande, general physician associated with NSSH said, “there is lack of awareness on the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Rise in instances of substance abuse especially onset of alcoholism at an early age are commonly occurring factors. Lack of basic education in hygiene leads to contraction of several diseases.” Though the area has close proximity to Mumbai, the doctor retorted, the inhabitants of the area have no access to modern health facilities and hence are not aware of modern medical treatment methods.

The camp was organized in association with Young Christian Women’s Association (YCWA).